This November, Localworks, the Wheat Ridge Business Association and the Wheat Ridge Chamber are partnering with our local Wheat Ridge businesses to promote national Shop Small Saturday on Nov. 27. There are many reasons to shop small and local. Here are two.
Shopping small and local keeps our sales tax dollars in Wheat Ridge to support city programs and services. Here in Colorado, cities are primarily funded by sales tax revenue. In Wheat Ridge, 51 percent of the city’s revenue comes from sales tax. So, ensuring our sales tax dollars stay here is a key way to keep our city vibrant. Fun fact: In Wheat Ridge, there are over 800 businesses where you can shop small and local.
Shopping small and local is more than just sales tax revenue! When you shop small and local, you are supporting local entrepreneurs and you are tapping into a network of local experts. Small business owners love what they do and they want to share their expertise with you.
Additionally, small and local businesses represent the character of our community – that “Wheat Ridge-ness” that we all love. So, when you are out shopping small and local, be sure to say “hi” to Christy at Cosmo’s Dog Bakery, Peter at Peter Damian Jewelers, Joe at Pietra’s Pizzeria, Sarah at The Clothes Mine, Tadd at Stylus and Crate, Carmen at Belfiori Italian, Lana and Kathy at All Seasons Holiday Market, Katie at iPie – you get the picture! Plan to spend Nov. 27 getting to know some of the 800 small and local businesses here in Wheat Ridge. Take a moment to talk to them about their business and their passion. Then, snap a picture to post to social media, tag them, and use the hashtag: #shopwheatridge
Dec. 4 is the annual Holiday Celebration and Official Tree Lighting! This event will take place on High Court at 38th Avenue from 3 to 6:30 p.m. There will be free horse carriage rides, trackless train rides, hot chocolate, cider and cookies. You can enjoy strolling carolers, food trucks, deals and specials with our small and local businesses, games, crafts and a visit by Santa and Mrs. Claus around 5 p.m. The mayor will officially light the tree at 6:30 p.m. This is the fun, family friendly event that kicks off the holiday season.
We look forward to seeing you out shopping and at the Holiday Celebration! Our community connections are what make Wheat Ridge such a special place. The Localworks team looks forward to connecting with you and your family. Visit www.wearelocalworks.org for more information and to sign up to volunteer in the community. You can also follow Localworks on Facebook and Instagram to stay up to date.
Kate Cooke is the Executive Director of Localworks.
