IndieBound and proud! or Got Holiday cash to spend?

First of all, whatever you celebrate, happy holidays. I am celebrating a quiet day in my studio. It's the best of presents.

Now, I am hoping to convince you to arrange a visit to our gallery or our online shop to spend your holiday cash LOCALLY. We have art of all kinds at all prices and we have Linda Billet pendants, too. Heck, stop by just because you're curious at this place.

Meanwhile, as we climb out of this economic downturn, as the spinners call it, please do be the biggest favor and think about how things are changing. As we move to greener and smarter living, we are also going BACKWARDS  in a good way - we're going back to WALKABLE communities with vibrant downtowns. So, here's my pitch and a bit of research, with a little help from IndieBound.


When you shop at an independently owned business, your entire community benefits:
The Economy

• Spend $100 at a local and $68 of that stays in your community. Spend the same $100 at a national chain, and your community only sees $43.
• Local businesses create higher-paying jobs for our neighbors.
• More of your taxes are reinvested in your community--where they belong.

The Environment

• Buying local means less packaging, less transportation, and a smaller carbon footprint.
• Shopping in a local business district means less infrastructure, less maintenance, and more money to beautify your community.

The Community

• Local retailers are your friends and neighbors—support them and they’ll support you.
• Local businesses donate to charities at more than twice the rate of national chains.
• More independents means more choice, more diversity, and a truly unique community.

Now is the time to stand up and join your fellow individuals in the IndieBound mission supporting local businesses and celebrating independents.
IndieBound supports Independent Business Alliances around the country. To find an alliance near you, visitAMIBA or BALLE.
Learn more about IndieBound.