Did you know that if you spend $100 at a local business, roughly $68 stays in your local economy? Spending that same amount at a large business, according to the Civic Economics Study in Michigan, keeps only $43 in the local economy. And did you know that small businesses donate 250% more than larger businesses to non-profits and community causes, according to the Seattle Good Business Network? That’s definitely something to keep in mind as you head out this season for your holiday shopping.
On Small Business Saturday, November 30th, Chardon shops will open offering from 10 am until 5 pm giving you the opportunity to find unique gifts for everyone on your list, while supporting local businesses and the community. And the Chamber of Commerce will provide complimentary coffee and donuts until 11 am to help fuel your morning.
As you head to the square, one shop on Main Street that’s definitely worth a look is The Nest. Even a peak at the storefront window will melt even the grinchiest of hearts. The sign outside simply states ‘Vintage Chic Home Décor,’ but making your way across the threshold will transport you into a holiday wonderland. The Nest is a home furniture and decor store filled with filled with handcrafted items sure to become family favorites. The furniture is repurposed and the store is full of unique home decor and gifts including candles, cards, jewelry, soaps, and lotions.
This year, the Nest is offering their version of a subscription service, the Nesting Box. The monthly box includes four special decorative items that are exclusive to the box and won’t be sold in the store. The retail value of each monthly box is between $65 to $85, but the cost to you is only $40. Order one for a gift, or pick one up for yourself by stopping by the shop or ordering online at thenest.org.
If you can’t make it on Small Business Saturday, you still have plenty of time this holiday season to experience the small town charm of Chardon. Home for the Holidays will take place on the historic square and along Main Street on Friday, December 13th and Saturday, September 14th. That weekend, you and your family can experience horse-drawn carriage rides and watch husky dog demonstrations.
Sign up for the Frozen 4k race on Saturday morning, or get your exercise walking from shop to shop, experiencing the rush of finding unique and unusual gifts for everyone on your Christmas list. The Nest, Bean’s, Circa, Square Bistro, Salty, and more will be offering special promotions. Through the ‘Stop, Shop, Drop 20’ program, when you spend $20 on the Square, you’ll be entered into a raffle for a holiday basket filled with items from Chardon stores. In addition, the Chardon Library will have holiday crafts and a special photo booth to capture some of the weekend’s holiday spirit.
And don’t forget to bring your lists to drop off for Santa. You can mail your letter in the special North Pole mailbox located at the corner of Main Street and Water Street. And don’t forget to include your return address on the letter, so Santa and his elves know where to send a response! There’s something for everyone, including a special hot cocoa bar, gingerbread contest, and even real reindeer. Little ones will love the chance to meet holiday characters and kids of all ages will marvel at the popular fire and ice tower lighting. For more information, visit the city of Chardon at www.chardon.cc.
