Wilmington, NC- Support Local Stores This Holiday Season

Wilmington, NC- No matter the time of year, we hear a lot of chatter about supporting small businesses. We’ve all heard the benefits- stimulating your local economy, encouraging job growth, continuing to invest in your community, etc.

There are many, many reasons to shop locally, but the real question is, why do you shop locally? For some, it’s to honor Small Business Saturday, but for others, it’s a habit that continues year round.

Why Queensboro Loves Shopping Local

In honor of Nov. 24th’s Small Business Saturday, we asked some of our Queensboro employees why they love supporting local businesses. Here’s what some of our team members had to say:

“It’s a sort of acknowledgment that I belong to this community, that I’m committed to its future. Cities and towns would be indistinguishable – some homogenous glut of national franchises – if it weren’t for the personal flavor that locally owned businesses bring to a community.” – Michael, Marketing

“I enjoy the interaction between myself, the owners, and employees.  It is great to put a face with a name.  There is something special about walking into a place where everyone knows you. “- Adaire, Business Development

“I love Old Books on Front. Nobody’s ever rushing you or looking over your shoulder and there’s huge variety. It doesn’t have that antiseptic feel you get from the big chain bookstores.”- Jenn, Marketing & Copywriter

“Whenever I think of small business vs. big business, I think about that Meg Ryan movie, “You’ve Got Mail”. She owned this cozy, little gem of a store, and eventually, went out of business because of a major retailer in the area. I have a real soft spot for local business because of the individuality and determination they symbolize.” - Melissa, Social Media & SEO

What is Small Business Saturday?

Small Business Saturday was developed by American Express in 2010. Amex cardholders are encouraged to shop at local participating stores on Nov. 24th to gain benefits such as getting $25 back one time when spending $25 or more. However, the idea of Small Business Saturday has taken hold over small businesses everywhere.

The day falls on one of the biggest holiday shopping weekends, between the  Black Friday and Cyber Monday. This year, Queensboro hopes that we can help bring in sales and traffic for our locally owned shops and businesses in our hometown of Wilmington, NC.

What’s good for small businesses, is great for Wilmington, and what’s great for Wilmington, is definitely great for us!

Shop at Local Wilmington, NC Stores This Season

We’ve compiled a list of local stores to shop at this holiday season in the Wilmington area. Don’t forget, during the holiday season, especially on Saturday, November 24th, put down your store credit cards and head out to your favorite Mom and Pop  for some great holiday shopping!

#1) Presents For Your Furry Friends –  Aunt Kerry’s Pet Stop

All natural wheat, corn and soy free dog treats.

This locally owned and operated pet store in Wilmington, NC is sure to have whatever bone, collar or leash your pet needs! Not only does Aunt Kerry’s have a wide selection of dog and cat gifts, the store has been supplying Wilmington with all natural, healthy food and treats for 14 years. Check out the all natural, locally produced Glynne Soaps for your Golden Retriever, or pick out a new high quality, hemp dog collar for your Bulldog. Whatever your pet wants from Santa Paws, Aunt Kerry’s is very likely to have it!  Aunt Kerry’s Pet Stop, 3600 S. College Rd, Wilmington, NC 28412. ‘Like’ the Aunt Kerry Facebook page for adorable dog pics and new product blasts.

#2) Gifts For a Bookworm - Old Books on Front

Old Books on Front in Downtown Wilmington

Old Books on Front has been a staple in downtown Wilmington area since 1982. The store even smells like books! A long time favorite of many Wilmington area residents, the store has been featured in various films and television shows,  and has moved locations a few times before settling on it’s current  location. You’re likely to find a great gift for any book lover on your holiday list with over two miles of books to choose from! Old Books on Front in Downtown Wilmington, 249 N. Front St. Wilmington, NC 28401. Check out their latest finds and upcoming book readings on The Old Books on Front Facebook page. 

#3) Unique Gifts for Foodies - The Veggie Wagon

The Veggie Wagon in Carolina Beach, NC

Have a foodie to shop for? Look no further than The Veggie Wagon in Carolina Beach, NC!  This locally owned and operated produce company is so much more than just veggies- they also offer a huge selection of dips, sauces, dressings, seasonings, jams, and pickled products. The best part is that all of the produce and homemade products are from North Carolina. Skip the gourmet aisle and grab some sweet wildflower honey for your sister, or their 8th Wonder Spice Blend for the grill master of the family. Your taste buds will surely thank you!  The Veggie Wagon, 608 B South Lake Park Blvd, Carolina Beach, NC 28428. Follow the Veggie Wagon Facebook page for recipe ideas and scheduled tastings. 

#4) A Gift For Any Homeowner -  Saw Grass Candles

Just because you’re shopping locally, doesn’t mean you have to leave your house. Thanks to virtual storefronts such as Etsy and Queensboro’s QB Stores, you can shop locally without leaving your couch! Saw Grass Candles of Wilmington (on Etsy.com) is a locally owned homemade candle shop.  All of Heather Jernigan’s candles are made with soy wax and essential oils, then packaged in reusable and recyclable materials. Make your entire house smell like Christmas with a Christmas Memories Soy Candle. Pick up a Me Ke Aloha (With Love) Soy Candle for a great holiday gift for a loved one. No matter your selection, it’s guaranteed to smell great!  Saw Grass Candles, Wilmington, NC, shop their homemade soy candles on Etsy and visit the Saw Grass Candles Facebook page. 

#5) Shop for the Chef in Your Life - The Olive Shoppe

The Olive Shoppe at the Cotton Exchange

Looking for a special gift for the culinary genius in your family? The Olive Shoppe in downtown Wilmington, located in the Cotton Exchange, is the ideal place to find the perfect gift for any aspiring chef or entertainer. Specializing in balsamic vinegars and blended olive oils, The Olive Shoppe features products such as Roasted Chili Infused EVOO, Natural Blood Orange EVOO, and Chocolate Covered Cherry Aged Balsamic. Yum! If you’re not familiar with the flavors, no problem- they offer free tastings. There’s also an Olive Shoppe location at Barefoot Landing in South Carolina. The Olive Shoppe, 331 N Front St, Wilmington, NC 28401. ‘Like’ The Olive Shoppe on Facebook to get updated on all their delicious new flavors. 

#6) One of a Kind Jewelry - La Bella Joya

Another great local business with an online store is La Bella Joya (Etsy.com). Marcie Carroll of Wilmington makes unique, stylish handwoven jewelry that makes a great gift for any mother, sister, daughter, friend or wife. Her eye catching pendants aren’t just beautiful, they’re one of a kind. Along with selling great looking jewelry, Marcie also offers tutorials on how to make your own. Get your best friend a beautiful, Flying Bees Embroidered Pendant, or order a The Emerald City Arch Pendant for your daughter. These are truly unforgettable gifts. La Bella Joya, Wilmington, NC, shop their handwoven jewelry on Etsy or visit the La Bella Joya blog. 

#7) Brews For The Beer Lover - Front Street Brewery

Front Street Brewery in Downtown Wilmington

Stumped on what to get a beer enthusiast? Front Street Brewery in downtown Wilmington is the place to go! Known for it’s food and beer, Front Street Brewery is a popular local restaurant and bar specializing in micro brews. Pick up a hand crafted growler or a half gallon jug for a holiday gift that’s sure to please even the pickiest beer drinker! Need a quick break from shopping? Front Street Brewery’s full menu is available until midnight. Highlights of their extensive menu include the Cheddar Ale Soup, Black and Bleu Burger, Beer Battered Fish and Chips, and homemade chocolate ice cream. Front Street Brewery, 9 North Front Street, Wilmington, NC 28401. Join their loyal fan community on the Front Street Brewery Facebook.

#8) Gifts for the Fashionista - Hallelu Boutique

Sweaters from Hallelu Boutique

No matter what fashionista you’re shopping for, yourself or someone else, Hallelu Boutique has you covered. Hallelu has a variety of trendy, sophisticated looks for the stylish female in your life. This affordable, yet chic boutique has been featured in both US Weekly and In Style Magazine. Get all the benefits of a big city retailer with the perks of supporting a local business. Pick up a stylish new jacket for your daughter, or a unique necklace for your wife! Hallelu Boutique, 84 Waynick Boulevard,  Wrightsville Beach, NC 28480. Shop online at shophallelu.com or visit the Hallelu Facebook page. 

#9) Surfing and Skating Gifts - 360Skate.com

Shop for the surfer or skating enthusiast in your life at the locally owned and operated 360Skate.com. Since 2004, 360 Skate has been a customer oriented company with expertise in skateboarding and surfing. Skip the lines and browse through their wide selection of skateboards, skateboard decks, wheels, hardware and accessories. Buy a Spitfire Bighead hoodie for your nephew, new skateboard wheels for your brother, or find the perfect complete skateboard for your own holiday wishlist.  Wilmington locals, get free shipping with no minimum order with coupon code local12.  360Skate.com, Wilmington, NC. 

#10) Fresh Produce, Crafts & Fun – Downtown Wilmington’s Riverfront Farmers Market

Fresh cherry tomatoes at the Riverfront Farmers’ Market in Wilmington, NC

This holiday season, bypass the produce section at the grocery store. On Saturdays from March 31st – December 22nd, local Wilmington residents have the chance to shop at the open air Riverfront Farmers Market. From 8 am to 1 pm, over 50 vendors sell handmade, homegrown products from the Wilmington area. Weekly attendees know to expect everything from fresh fruit and vegetables to unique artwork and quirky crafts. Stock up on the freshest ingredients and original gifts for the holidays every Saturday until Dec. 22nd. Featured vendors include La Gemma Fine Italian Pastries and Grassy Ridge Farm. Riverfront Farmers Market, Riverfront Park in Historic Downtown Wilmington (00 block of N. Water Street), Saturdays from 8 am- 1 pm. ‘Like’ Riverfront Farmers Market on Facebook for weather updates and vendor spotlights.

Join the discussion on the Queensboro Facebook- where is your favorite place to shop locally?
Why do you choose to support local business?