The Ladysmith Downtown Business Association and its members are encouraging residents to shop local this holiday season.
The ‘Try Ladysmith First’ slogan has been a theme for the organization over the past year as it tries to sway people towards finding goods and services closer to home, rather than spending their hard earned money in big box stores.
“You live in a small town so you should try and support (small businesses),” said the LDBA’s president Paul Mycroft.
“When you buy from a local shop, rather than leaving town to buy from a big box store, you’re helping that person’s family.”
Building around the Festival of Lights, the LDBA is holding an Old Time Christmas, featuring horse and carriage rides and choirs, on Friday Dec. 2
“Light Up is a springboard into the whole six week period. It generates excitement and people get into the spirit,” said Mycroft.
Local stores are also being encouraged to stay open late until 8 p.m. on Dec. 9 and 16th to encourage local shopping.
Lastly, those who shop downtown from Nov. 16 to Dec. 8 could win a shopping spree valued at $500, $300 or $100 to use locally.
“The community benefits from people who do use local vendors,” Mycroft said.
