It has been a rough, interesting year for the Lowcountry's local shops (to say the least) and the rest of the world, but the holiday season is here! With Shop Small Saturday around the corner, we are looking for every possible opportunity to support our local businesses.
Even though we cannot gather in large groups like we normally would, we can still celebrate with our close family accordingly! That includes shopping for loved ones, making delicious food, and playing our favorite games with holiday music playing in the background.
In an effort to spread the holiday cheer, make sure to include your community this season! It can be as easy as stopping by local the nursery for a poinsettia, shopping at the farmer’s market for your holiday meals, and purchasing a gift card from a boutique next time you’re out and about. Check out the ways we’re supporting local businesses!
Shop Online & Shop Early
Not up for venturing out during the holiday shopping rush? Give your favorite local shops your business online. It’s undeniably the most convenient and safest way to shop! Since March, many of our Hilton Head local shops have created or enhanced their online presence. From launching e-commerce options to expanding the online product offerings, most of your favorite stores can be found online.
Buying from your local stores online during Black Friday weekend is typically the perfect amount of time for your purchases to arrive in time for holiday celebrations.
Hilton Head Local Shops
Buying from your local stores online during Black Friday weekend is typically the perfect amount of time for your purchases to arrive in time for holiday celebrations. There is a lot of online shopping to do at Shelter Cove & Marina and Village at Wexford. Find a beautiful olive oil gift set from Hilton Head Oils for an aromatic, homey gift that your friends and family will love.
Photo: Hilton Head Oils
When businesses were closed, purchasing gift cards from local restaurants and shops was an option many people chose to support their Hilton Head local shops, and they thanked the community for that support! Let’s take that same idea and apply it to the holidays. It’s guaranteed income from them, and when buyers shop to spend their gift cards, they often spend more and support the business.
We like the idea of a gift card that’s valid at many places, like one from SERG restaurant group, where visitors and locals can find the best seafood, shopping, and entertainment. Plus, they offer e-gift cards in addition to classic gift cards that can be sent via mail.
Bluffton Local Shops
We are looking forward to planning the Thanksgiving menu this year. Did you know many recipe ingredients can be bought several days before the day you’re cooking? You can still serve a fresh meal with items you purchase slightly ahead of time. This means you can knock out your list little by little vs. stressing over a huge shopping list. Purchasing goods from your community may help you feel less overwhelmed, and you’ll feel good about your purchases! Consider getting produce and other holiday necessities at Bluffton Farmer’s Market.
Hoping to enhance your wardrobe on Shop Small Saturday? You cannot go wrong with trips to some of the best boutiques in the Lowcountry like Gigi’s and Cocoon and The Haven. Find a plethora of gift options for your dear friends at one of our local gems, the Bluffton General Store.
Beaufort Local Shops
You will be hard-pressed to find someone who doesn’t love a delicious-smelling soap. Small and lovely, handmade soaps are the perfect stocking stuffer - and you can support local by grabbing your stock from Bathe. Seeking something more Lowcountry-inspired? Pop into Hollyhocks or Lulu Burgess.
Don’t forget the kids! Beaufort has some wonderful shops with items for children, including Monkey’s Uncle and Beaufort Belle.
Shop Small Business Saturday
Local businesses thrive on regular local customers, and also visitors. If you have friends or family planning to visit in the future, consider purchasing them a gift card to use on an experience like a spa day or round of golf. It will give you both something to look forward to and at the same time, you’re supporting the community!
The day after Black Friday has been recognized as the day to focus on supporting the businesses in your community. Think local gift shops, the mom-and-pop bookstore, the dog boutique, your hair salon, the town nursery, and more.
Most folks are using this time to buy gifts for their friends and family, of course! Savvy shoppers also buy themselves a few things when the deals are out of this world. Do you regularly care for your skin, hair, and nails? Beauty products and services are usually discounted considerably over the Black Friday - Cyber Monday time period. Stock up on gift cards at discounted rates to use throughout the year! Some of our favorite locally-owned beauty options include a trip to Faces Lash Studio and the ultimate medical spa, LUX.
Photo: Faces
PRO TIP: Plan your shopping trips based on the part of town you’ll visit. Already heading to the course? Pop into the pro shop and pick up a gift or two. Dinner at Poseidon this weekend? Shop around Shelter Cove beforehand!
Conclusion
Buying gifts for others (and sneaking one or two in the cart for yourself) can be fun! This holiday season, remember to support your local business and:
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Shop early! Shop online and make sure to allow enough time for processing and shipping.
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Buy gift cards! They are a great way for the recipient to choose their own adventure or find something they actually want.
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Spread the love on Small Business Saturday, the day after Black Friday because the shopping weekend doesn’t start and end on Friday!
How do you support our local shops in the Lowcountry? What are you planning to buy locally on Black Friday?
Share with us in the comments below!
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