I am committing to shopping smaller this year. Yes, I love Amazon and yes, I will still shop Amazon this year because I too am a busy mama just like most of you reading this blog. We can’t deny the ease of the click and deliver. But as a small business and someone who has lots of friends around town who are entrepreneurs themselves, I have made a pledge to support those.
Let me tell you why YOU should too…By making a commitment to shop local or support small businesses, you cycle money back into your community. The tax revenue made through sale taxes from local businesses support the local government
Maybe you care about the environment. One word: transportation. A local small business tends to make more local purchases, which requires less transportation (less pollution and congestion).
Did you know that small businesses donate 250% more than large businesses to local nonprofits and community causes, creating a positive cycle of giving back locally. This includes local charities, youth organizations, local first responders, local service groups and more.
Enough reasons to do it. Now let me help you. Here are some local businesses that I think you should visit. Holidays are coming! Let’s show them some LOVE!!
Swoon: A beautiful boutique right here in Hopkinton. Owned by one of our town’s kindergarten teachers, someone who grew up in town and who knows it like the back of her hand. From casual jeans to a night on the town, this boutique can dress you from head to toe! Check them out! https://swooncentral.com/
The Herd, LLC: Postpartum Wellness Space where women and their families receive comprehensive care, resources, and education so they can thrive during the postpartum period & throughout their journey of motherhood. Offering private & group lactation and mental health services, support groups, prenatal & postpartum fitness & yoga classes, educational classes and workshops, moms night out events and dialy drop-in coffee & connection gatherings. Memberships, Class packs & Gift Cards Available on our website: www.theherdma.com
Bird & Bear: No joke, my favorite place to poke around. My favorite place to hang out. The energy, the vibe. This shop is a collective of many local artisans, local artists and shops all in one place! Seriously, RUN don’t walk if you need a hostess gift, a last minute gift basket, or simply don’t know what to get that hard to gift person in your life. This shop has something for just about everyone in your life. https://www.birdandbearcollective.com/
Energy Wellness with Anne: Offering Reiki and energy wellness in Hopkinton to help individuals reduce stress, find inner balance, and support personal growth. Available virtually and locally, perfect for holiday self-care and well-being. https://energy-wellness-with-anne.square.site/
Donut Stand: Now this place may not be on anyone’s Christmas list, but I promise you, if you leave anything from the DonutStand out for Santa or his elves, your stockings will be extra sweet this year. https://thedonutstand.com/home
Special Creations by Katie: Hopkinton local, making creations since 2019! Handmade items with a fun twist, either a bit funny or something personalized to gift and enjoy. facebook.com/SCbyKatie
LCI Paper Co: Fine cards, papers, envelopes, printing, laser cutting and engraving. Create your own holiday cards, grab some paper for holiday crafts, order laser engraved gifts & more. https://lcipaper.com/
Run Well: Mobile performance training & physical therapy with an emphasis on helping runners through a functional movement assessment & 3D running gait analysis. http://runwellhopkinton.com
Salty Mamina: Homemade Garlic Salt Made with Love–and Garlic! What could be better t flavor (see what I did there) your stockings this year? This could make the perfect hostess gift as well! http://www.saltymamina.com/
Mari Jae Artist: Classically trained oil painter working in a contemporary way. Available for sale are original paintings, prints and a thoughtfully designed collection of merch. http://www.marijaeartist.com/
The Little Bakery: Short Business descripción: Licensed residential kitchen in the town of Southborough specialized in Custom cakes and cupcakes. Vintage, Romantic and Rustic style. www.itsthelittlebalery.com
Twirling Bird Creative: Twirling Bird Creative offers painting kits for kids ages 3-99! Our mission is to guide and inspire while giving you the opportunity for creativity to flow. Painting kits include a pre-printed canvas design, set of acrylic paints, and a paintbrush. All handmade by a local Holliston resident! http://www.twirlingbirdcreative.com/
PlayNow Toys: The cutest toy store in Westboro with knowledgeable staff who can help you find the perfect toy! From children 9 days to 99 years, this is the place to go for all your stocking stuffers, unique toys and oh the puzzles!! https://www.playnowtoy.com/
Prime IV Hydration & Wellness – Marlborough: Prime IV is an IV hydration and vitamin injection spa which, let’s be honest, all the mamas could use a boost! https://primeivhydration.com/locations/massachusetts/marlborough-01752/
Blush Boutiques: Blush Bouquets offers a curated collection of premium flowers and unique gifts in downtown Ashland. From elegant arrangements to one-of-a-kind finds, we have everything you need to make a lasting impression. Enjoy an elevated shopping experience in-store or online. Let us help you celebrate all of life’s special moments. http://www.blushbouquets.com/
Yoga & Mindfulness with Molly Myers: Student & Yoga Instructor 10+ yrs. 500RYT Specializing in Restorative Yoga, Gentle Yoga, & Slow Flow. Reiki L2 & Yoga Nidra Certifications. Recently led Yoga Retreat in VT and will again Oct. 2025. Currently teaching @ the Hopkinton Center for the Arts Wednesday Evenings from 6-7pm. Pop up classes, workshops and local all day Retreats will be posted on social medial FB & IG: Yoga& Mindfulness with Molly Myers, Also available for private and small group instruction. https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61567790135005
Of course, I would love for you to consider booking a session with me because photography is the gift of a moment in time, the gift that freezes time and lasts a lifetime! Reach out today and visit me at www.saramaida.com!
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