The reason to support local businesses is simple: your support is returned directly back to the community. Why toss your money to big companies who thrive during the consumerism-fueled holiday season when you can spend time at the local businesses you know and love? A benefit of buying gifts locally includes the shortened shipping time due to the closer proximity, or no shipping time at all if you take advantage of the opportunity to shop in person. Many businesses offer discounts or even free goodies if you shop in person. Not only is shopping locally convenient, but the products are also high quality and often locally sourced, which means you are supporting employees from all around the community.

Whether you decorate for Christmas right after Halloween or include Thanksgiving, you can buy or even create your own décor locally. MAKE Art Studio and SMUDGE on Broadway are both suitable places to release your creative side. Not only will you have a unique decoration but also fun memories with your family or friends. If making your own décor pieces is daunting, but you still want something unique, stop by one of the many antique or thrift stores that line the streets of downtown Paducah. Flower and Furbish offers beautiful fall and winter arrangements that could adorn your dinner table.

The hunt for gifts can also be just as easy when done locally. Stop by local boutiques like The Dirt Road and Jaded Lane to find the perfect clothing for your momma or girlfriend. Unsure of what she would like? Just give a gift card instead. Many local businesses offer gift cards for purchase, which make perfect last-minute gifts. Give a gift card from Spire Piercing to that friend who has been wanting a new piercing or give a certificate to Cherry Nails to that friend who raves about Jack being the best nail artist. Make a stop at Hooper’s for your dad who loves all things hiking and camping or swing by Fetch to spoil your pup with the holiday spirit.

When planning dinners or events with your friends and family, you should consider dining at one of Paducah’s best eateries like Doe’s Eat Place, Flamingo Row, Max’s Brick Oven, Gold Rush Café, Mellow Mushroom or Paducah Beer Works. If you’re planning a more casual lunch, consider stopping by Kirchhoff’s, Italian Village, Branch Out, Parker’s Drive-In, Kountry Kastle or Pizza by the Pound. Even if you just need a pick-me-up you can still shop local at joints like Piper’s or Etc.