Check out the Shop Benalla First Campaign here
Hi everyone! I thought I’d share how I shop for Christmas.
I’m a mum with a husband and two sons, one in primary school and one in high school. Neither my husband nor I have huge families, but we love giving gifts, so we still end up buying for about 20 people!
Here’s the thing: I’m not a big shopper. I’m not someone who enjoys spending a whole day shopping in Shepparton or Chadstone “for fun.” But I am a huge lover of Benalla, and I’m very mindful of shopping local. You know the saying: use it or lose it.
Over the years, I’ve come up with a little shopping recipe that works for me.
1. Start with a list
I write down who I need to buy for, my budget and any gift ideas I have, while enjoying a coffe and treat from the Early Bird. I often choose a theme for the year, such as gardening, cooking, sleep or mindfulness. It helps me avoid buying the same sort of thing for someone year after year. Mind you, there’s always that person who gets a bottle of scotch!
2. Shop Benalla first
I see what I can find here before looking elsewhere. I love shopping in Benalla. I can park in one spot, and wander along the streets. There’s a lovely atmosphere, and you’re almost guaranteed to bump into someone you know. I think those of us who live here sometimes forget just how beautiful our streets are.
This year, there’s a street market on Friday 4 December from 9:30am to 2:00pm, which is a great chance to shop from local sellers, including people who may not have a shopfront. Everything is within easy walking distance of the car park.
3. Shop the gaps
There are always a few things I can’t find locally, so I fill those gaps through online orders. One thing that drives me mad about online orders, though, is the boxes. I’m sick of dealing with them in the recycling. Am I the only one?
If something is a little cheaper online but I can buy it locally for slightly more, I often choose local and think of the difference as the cardboard tax. And that’s before counting all the other benefits of supporting local businesses and keeping money in our community.
4. Shop Benalla last
Then it’s back to local shops for last minute gifts and any extra bits and pieces. Something didn’t arrive in the mail on time? Forgot someone? Need a few things for hosting? Benalla can sort me.
That’s my Christmas shopping recipe: make a list > shop Benalla first > fill the gaps > then shop Benalla last.
Like my plan? Follow along and see what I find in Benalla! And while you’re shopping, look out for the Shop Benalla First Christmas campaign. Purchases with participating businesses could put you in the draw to win a share of $1,000 in Benalla Dollars during December.
Shop Benalla First, and make local your last stop, too. ✨🎄