Whenever money is tight, the same dilemma comes up: shop at a discounted big box to save money, or shop from small businesses to stimulate the local economy? Most people would rather do the latter, but we simply don’t have the cash this year. Luckily, there is a solution. Ever the creative problem-solvers, many Bay Area businesses are participating in programs that give serious discounts (usually 15% and up) to local shoppers.
If you live in San Francisco, you can take advantage of Only In San Francisco’s ShopSF program. Just show your driver’s license or other ZIP code-bearing ID and you’ll get great deals at their participating merchants. Some of my favorite stores are on that list, like Urban Fauna Studio and Candystore Collective. Want to add your business? Sign up here.
If you live in the East Bay, wear plaid this Friday to show your support for local businesses on Plaid Friday. Their participating businesses include a lot of artists, including Ezme Designs, which makes beautiful ceramics, and TWO art subscription services — The Present Group and Art in a Box. If you are an East Bay business, there is still time to participate. Visit this page for details.
