5 reasons to love local this Christmas

The Christmas rush seems to start earlier every year and, whether you get it done first or leave it to the last minute, there’s one thing we can all agree on – tackling that dreaded shopping list can be stressful!

But it doesn’t have to be that way – if you’re hunting for that perfect present or the tastiest turkey, think local and you may be surprised what you find on your doorstep.

In Fareham’s towns, villages and shopping centres, there is a treasure trove of hidden gems – you need only to wander out of your front door to find them. And, after a difficult couple of years, it’s more important than ever to support your local traders and Live, Love Local this Christmas.

Here’s why:

If you’re hunting for that perfect present or the tastiest turkey, think local and you may be surprised what you find on your doorstep!

Giving back to our local businesses

Essential shops and businesses kept us all going during some tough times recently. Now it’s time to give something back – if local traders do well, then that’s good for all of us.

Spending locally helps us all prosper, as it makes for thriving local communities and improves everybody’s quality of life. We’ve all enjoyed what’s around us when we couldn’t go very far – let’s not lose our appreciation for local life now that we can get out and about more easily.

We all remember that Christmassy feeling from browsing local shops – tinsel, twinkling lights, festive aromas and stumbling upon that perfect gift. It’s something you just don’t get online or in the megastores.

Local traders put their hearts and souls into what they do and will always be delighted to see you.  Far more relaxed and open shopping experiences, you don’t get blinded with harsh overhead lights or lost in never-ending isles packed with the same products.

With expert advice on standby, shopping local gives you a tailored experience, and with no more waiting at home for that ‘it should have arrived two days ago gift’, Christmas might as well have come early!

It’s full of surprises

We’re all guilty of shopping for convenience, but locally-sourced items make far more interesting gifts than those mass-produced products you find online.

If you’re struggling to find the right present for your loved ones, local business will go the extra mile to help you make the right choice and find a standout gift.

For example, you can find retro menswear at the 157 stores in Fareham Town, or pop across the road to Heathen Chemistry for all your vinyl music needs.

Here you can delve into Fareham’s heritage, people, the impact of the Black Deathand discover more about some of the people who lived in the town and the Manor House itself, from high-ranking naval officers to prisoners in the hulks moored in Fareham Creek.  Did you know that the bricks for the Royal Albert Hall were made in Fareham – called Fareham Reds?

After your step back in time, you can shop for unusual Christmas gifts inspired by the museum’s collections and exhibitions, and then call in to the café for a well-earned treat from their locally sourced menu and take a look at the weird and wonderful collection of curiosities adorning the café’s wall.

Check them out:

It’s better for the planet

Shopping during the busy Christmas period can mean going out of your way – battling traffic jams and parking stress. Shopping locally gives you a chance to relax and scope out your neighbours’ decorations, by using public transport or simply walking into town.

Traveling less for your shop means saving parking money for your purchases, and so, while everyone else is out rushing around playing human dodgems, you can be sitting at home with your feet up by the fire!

There’s plenty to see and do

There’s so much more to do while you’re wondering round the shops this Christmas. Who doesn’t love looking at all the window decorations and, with food stalls, carol singers and even Santa’s grotto, it’s easier than ever to keep the whole family entertained.

Besides, while you’re looking round your local town, who knows who you’ll see – shopping for Christmas brings everyone out of winter hibernation, so a catchup coffee with an old friend could be just around the corner.