There are lots of local makers who bring their personal experiences, skills, and creativity to their products. Take the time to go to a local market event sometime and you’ll find out how these local people bring the soul to their products.

Lots of companies provide lower quality products that are less fresh and full of Trashy ingredients. A local company will guarantee you a product that is the real deal. The money is going to go back into the business to give it the ability to succeed in the future.

There’s no question that the job market is tight these days, and by shopping local, you are keeping a business open (one that cares about you) and giving people jobs within it so that you can help the local economy in more ways than one. So think about that next time you debate between one option at a local shop versus one that is slightly cheaper at a big box store. Think about the people that you help employ.

There is a fun and practical purpose to shopping local. If you have the chance to choose between the local business and a big Superstore, go with the local option. Join the budding community of conscious consumers right now and help save the planet by encouraging people to live in a healthy and sustainable manner.