Does your holiday list look something like this:
- Schedule family/staff holiday parties
- Take family photo
- Send holiday cards
- Confirm meal/catering menus
- Exchange names for gifting
- Purchase the perfect gift(s)
And on and on it goes…
Holiday preparations and shopping don’t have to put you in a holi-DAZE! We get it – this is a BUSY season. Fall and winter are full of year-end planning, both personal and professional. Year-end bookkeeping, social engagements, busy storefront hours, and personal holiday shopping… it’s no wonder these months fly by! It’s enough to overwhelm anyone.
Let People First Economy be your guide to an impactful and memorable holiday season! Prepare for the Gift Local, Gift Good season with the help of Michigan’s business community.
Values-driven and local businesses are here for you, providing solutions and keeping our community vibrant. They are depending on YOU to put people first before, during, and after the holidays. These businesses keep our economy stable and resilient by creating jobs, recirculating capital, and building a sense of place.
The holiday season is a huge year-end surge of economic activity. It’s a fantastic opportunity to funnel resources to the businesses you love most. So let’s get organized!
Preparing to Travel
Creating holiday plans is one thing, taking the hassle out of commuting is another! Whether you’re traveling down the road to join a community event, traveling out of state, or bringing your staff to a fun outing, our local business community can help you plan. Be sure your car is winterized and tuned up, consider taking public transit and/or planning your family trip with the support of our local travel agencies.
Meaningful Corporate Gifts
Thank your coworkers and team for all their hard work this year with Local First member gift bundles! Find fun, unique gifts that will make an impact on the West Michigan economy. Businesses embedded in our neighborhoods have tasty treat boxes, one-of-a-kind items, and customizable gifts that are perfect for your team.
Cater your holiday meals
Menu planning, grocery store running, and holiday meal cooking: for some, it brings some joy. For others, it can be a hurdle. If you’re the former, our local grocers have you covered. If you’re the latter, save your time and line up a catered meal!
Explore business corridors and community events
Did you know that Local First has a community calendar? Your Local First Program team has sourced the best of West Michigan’s community and business events all in one place. Simply visit localfirst.com/events to see what creative and unique opportunities are happening this season!
Plan your gathering at a local venue
So it’s time to plan your family or staff holiday gatherings! Pick a unique and memorable venue through the Local First directory. From ballrooms to private dining rooms, our local businesses have a venue that’s perfect for your individual needs.
Create shopping lists using the Gift Local and Gift Good guides
Ask yourself these questions as you prep for this holiday season:
What local experiences would my loved ones or staff appreciate?
Can I curate a locally-sourced selection of holiday activities (shopping + coffee, tree farm + brewery, event tickets + a meal)?
What gifts would be meaningful to my loved ones?
In what ways does my holiday prep contribute to the neighborhoods I care about?
Do the experiences I plan and gifts I give support a values-aligned business?
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