1.Spread The Word 

Many people think supporting small businesses means you have to spend money, but independent shops rely on visibility. A few, free ways to support can include a simple share on social media, leaving a nice positive google review, tagging them in photos or simply recommending them to local groups. 

2.Make Visiting Independent Shops Part of Your Festive Outing 

Rather than heading straight to the big names and brands, why not show independent shops a bit of love first. Visit Christmas markets where local independent vendors will be, if you want to see the ones we recommend click here to read our Christmas Market blog. Or visit independent gift shops to find those perfect gifts, which will likely have a more lasting impact than mass produced toys. 

3.Be Patient 

Small businesses often hand make items and manage stock themselves so shopping early helps them keep up to date with demand and what they need to restock for their next order. Perhaps you could make it into a family tradition. For example, every year you head out for a relaxed, local shopping day and plan what you need to buy. 

4.Choose Local Suppliers and Entertainment 

Be sure to include local suppliers and entertainers when you’re planning where to go on cooler days. Consider independent cafes like Paws For Thought in Romsey, indoor play areas like I Wanna Be and Active Monkeys, or stay cosy at Reading Fairy where your little ones can explore other worlds and learn through sounds and play. 

5.Make It Fun for Kids 

Adding something special every Christmas will help little ones feel involved. Perhaps let them help choose a local shop to pay a visit to, pick a handmade ornament for the tree each year or let them help make Christmas cards or gift tags to go with each locally bought gift. This way, supporting local shops doesn’t just help businesses, it helps you and your little ones carve out quality time together. 

Why does it matter where you shop? 

The reason shopping small matters so much is because behind every small business is a person and when you choose to support them, you’re not just buying a product you’re helping them pay their bills, keeping the community spaces alive, strengthening local creativity and making sustainable choices. So, let’s add a little more local support to our Christmas lists this year and support small businesses and attractions.  

Don’t forget, we’ve just added a new addition to our Busy activity book collection! Our Busy Elf Book is now available and it’s perfect for keeping little ones entertained on car journeys and days out. You can order your copy here, but be quick while stocks last.