As someone who loves exploring locally, I thought it would only make sense to write up a short post to promote Small Business Saturday.

Small businesses and local shops are what make most towns fun explore and give each town their uniqueness. In this day and age it is understandably easier to make purchases online but with just a little planning you would be surprised at just how many gifts you from your list that you can find from your local shops and artisans.

The first way you can support your local shops is probably the most obvious; check your local stores first. If there is a specific item on your list check and see if it is available at any of your local shops before buying online or from a big retailer. If your local shop does not seem to have the item you are looking for in stock, you can always check to see if the item can be ordered for you. Many places ( like bookstores or record stores ) can special order items either into their store or even to your home. Do be sure to give yourself enough time before the holidays as special orders and holiday shipping can sometimes be delayed.

Another way to support to your local businesses is to purchase gift cards. Do you have a book lover or board gamer player in your life but are unsure of what things they already own? A gift card to a local independent bookstore/ comic store or board game store is a great option.

Do you know a family member who is hard to shop for but likes a certain type of cuisine or is just a foodie? Try buying a gift from one of your favorite local restaurants or bakeries.

Lastly, do keep in mind your local artists and craftsmen. Although not in the typical brick-and-mortar setup, you would be surprised just how many people you may know that make things as a side hustle or hobby. Many people will take commissions or make items by request. Be sure to keep an eye on any event pages as this is the time of year that many artists will sell their wares at holiday bazaars, markets, or festivals.

Below I have assembled a list of some of our favorite small businesses in different categories. Don’t see your favorite on the list? Feel free to drop their information in the comments.

Have fun holiday shopping, and don’t forget to get out there and explore while supporting your local small businesses!

Bookstores:

Joseph-Beth Booksellers- 2692 Madison Rd, Cincinnati, OH 45208

The Book Loft of German Village-631 S 3rd St, Columbus, OH 43206

Dark Star Books & Comics-237 Xenia Ave, Yellow Springs, OH 45387

Paragraphs Bookstore-229 S Main St, Mt Vernon, OH 43050

Rabbit Hole Books-29 W First St, Dayton, OH 45402

Comic Shops:

Bookery Fantasy Collectibles-16 W Main St, Fairborn, OH 45324

Super-Fly Comics & Games-132 Dayton St, Yellow Springs, OH 45387

Bell, Book & Comic-458 Patterson Rd, Dayton, OH 45419

Board Game Shops:

Epic Loot Games-9130 Dayton Lebanon Pike, Centerville, OH 45458

Room and Board Gaming-1878 S Maple Ave, Fairborn, OH 45324

Vinyl and Music Shops:

Skeleton Dust Records-2101 E 5th St, Dayton, OH 45403

Omega Music-318 E 5th St, Dayton, OH 45402

Toxic Beauty Records-220 Xenia Ave, Yellow Springs, OH 45387