Big impact felt locally from shopping small

TOLEDO, Ohio (WTVG) – It’s time to load up the sleigh with holiday gifts. But how is this holiday shopping season shaping up for local shops?

Northwest Ohio is full of beautiful small towns that have lots of good options when it comes to shopping small. 13 Action News checked in with two small business owners in downtown Perrysburg. It’s shaping up to be a solid season for both, but things got off to a bit of a slow start.

Meredith Moore owns Sophia Lustig, a women’s clothing boutique that’s been part of the Northwest Ohio landscape for decades.

“It seemed like a slow start for us because Thanksgiving was later this year. Foot traffic is now picking up that crunch time is on,” Moore said.

Moore said what helps set her store apart from big retailers is the personal experience for shoppers. Everything from help choosing an outfit to gift wrapping and delivery.

“There is a lot of love in the whole process from choosing the right product to the presentation of the packages,” Moore said.

The phone is an important tool when it comes to connecting with customers on a couple of levels.

“This year we’re getting on the phone calling customers reaching out and getting them back in the door. A lot of time is also spent on the phone and the computer taking pictures of outfit options, more so than ever,” Moore said.

Moore pointed out that the focus isn’t just on specialized service during the holidays.

“It’s a build-up to this time of year. We build relationships all year long and that helps make a successful December for us,” Moore said.

The holiday season had the same kind of start at Angel 101, too. Sales were a bit slow at first, but they’re picking up steam.

“I hope that momentum continues and we can have an end-of-the-season boost,” Angel Elden, the owner of Angel 101, said.

Elden said their attention to detail also helps set them apart from big box stores and online options. They have offerings at various price points and they send people out the door gift-ready.

“We hope people want to come, touch, feel and smell our items. They can talk to our sales staff and get to know us. That’s how we combat all the online competition,” Elden said.

Elden said another important thing to point out is that by shopping small, there’s a huge return on investment for the community. For example, she said like a lot of other small business owners, she donates to all kinds of local events, organizations and fundraisers.

Latest Local News | First Alert Weather | Crime | National | 13abc Originals

Copyright 2024 WTVG. All rights reserved.