Whatcom County has a great community of small businesses, and we're lucky to be a part of it! Here are some ways you can support our local businesses:
1. Shop Local
Before purchasing something from a big box store, consider seeing if you can find it at a local shop. Check out places like Greenhouse for home décor, Fairhaven Toy Garden for toys, Village Books for books, Babygreens for plants, and Fringe Boutique for clothing.
2. Purchase Gift Cards
Don't have anything you want to buy or want to gift someone else the opportunity to shop local? Consider buying a gift card! Many local businesses have gift cards available on their website. If you don't have a specific place you want to support, the Whatcom County Think Local First Gift Card features over 150 participating Whatcom County businesses and continues to add more. Recipients of the gift card can shop at any of these locations including 12th Street Shoes, AB Crepes, and Petstop!
3. Eat Local
Whether ordering from your favorite local restaurant or supporting your local farmers at the Bellingham Farmers Market. A few of our favorite restaurants in Whatcom County are Greene's Corner, Wanida Thai Cuisine, and Old World Deli (the Mediterranean tuna salad is a go-to among our bookkeepers!).
Looking for food and farms near you? Check out the Eat Local First website to connect with local food growers and products!
4. Tip Generously
If you want to directly support those who provide great service, consider tipping them more than you usually would. This is a great way to show your appreciation and put money into the hands of those in our community.
5. Show Up Virtually
Don't want to leave the house? Many classes, workshops, and meetings have shifted online. Join places like Barre3 and Joy of Pilates for live, online workout sessions; talk with a local therapist virtually at the Restoring Connections Counseling Center, and visit the Whatcom Museum through their Virtual Exhibits.
6. Leave a Positive Review
Positive reviews not only cheer up small businesses but also help new customers find them. Search for your favorite restaurant or local business on Google or Yelp and leave them a nice review. This is one way you can support them without spending any money!
7. Give Them a Shout Out on Social Media
Similar to leaving a review, giving your favorite business a shout-out on social media helps boost their presence in our community. If you order take-out, consider snapping a picture and posting it on Facebook and tagging them. You can also share some of their posts helping them spread the word to your network and beyond.
8. Donate
Choose to give without getting anything in return (besides the great feeling of knowing you’re supporting local businesses) by donating. You can donate your time, services, products, or cash to a business in need.
Spread the Love
We hope this blog post gave you some ideas on how you can support some of your favorite businesses. If you know of any other ways to support local businesses at this time, please let us know! We'd love to hear them. ☺