Shop Local for the Holidays – Shop Montrose

Here in Montrose we like to think we offer a simpler life away from the hustle and bustle of the “big city.” With our delightful tree lined streets, wonderful shops and delicious food in our restaurants, it is like stepping back in time. When you walk through the town you are taken back to the days when you met at the counter of the local soda shop, walked your mail down to the post office and shopped at the general store for all of your goods. It speaks of an era when life was less hectic and moved at a friendlier pace. I personally want to help keep the charm of our city and the relaxed atmosphere here that offers a chance to slow down. And with the busy holiday shopping season soon upon us, it is important for you to remember your part in keeping Montrose alive. This beautiful town will not exist without the support of the local community. That is why we at the Chamber want to encourage you to Shop Montrose for the holidays and remember to “shop local first.” Why shop at a locally-owned business first? Here are a few reasons: By shopping locally you support yourself by keeping dollars in the local economy. When shopping locally, you simultaneously create jobs, fund more city services through sales tax, invest in neighborhood improvement and promote community development. When you shop locally you also help keep our community unique with our one-of-a-kind businesses that add distinctive character to Montrose. Where we shop, where we eat and have fun – all of it makes our community home. Our one-of-a-kind businesses are an integral part of the distinctive character of this place and help attract people from outside the area to shop here.

Shopping locally also helps create good jobs. Small local businesses are the largest employer nationally and in our community, and provide the most jobs to residents. Also, our owner-operated shops support local community groups and organizations adding to the overall value of our community. Their contributions give more support to our local community than larger retail chains.

Local shops value you more. Evidence from numerous surveys show people receive better customer care and service locally. Local businesses survive by their reputation and repeat business. This means you get a higher standard of service and people with a better understanding of the products they are selling and who take more time to get to know you.

And finally, and most importantly, shopping locally means you can skip that trip to the busy, overcrowded, mega mall! Now that is what I want to hear! Remember, when you come to Montrose to shop you are doing much more than picking up the items you want and need. You are helping to sustain our area and our local economy. There are so many great businesses in town and I am confident you will find “something for everyone.”

For information about all of these businesses log on to
www.shopmontrose.com where you will find a complete list of businesses. Remember, when you come to Montrose to shop you are doing so much more than picking up the items you want and need. You are helping to sustain our area and our local economy.

Montrose-Verdugo City Chamber of Commerce: Your source for all things local! Our mission is to actively support and enrich the community, vitality and pride of Montrose, to help preserve the historic district and small town atmosphere, to promote economic stability and positive, productive relationships within Montrose and the surrounding communities.

Upcoming events
Wednesday, Nov. 4 is the November business mixer from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Jenkins Properties, 2626 Honolulu Ave., Montrose.

Saturday, Nov. 21 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. is the ArtWalk in the 2300 and 2400 blocks of Honolulu Avenue.

December business mixer is on Wednesday, Dec. 2 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Boulevard 34, 3427 Ocean View Blvd., Montrose.

Montrose tree lighting ceremony on Friday, Nov. 27 in the  Montrose Shopping Park.

Montrose Christmas Parade is on Saturday, Dec. 5 at 6 p.m. sharp in the, 2200, 2300 and 2400 blocks of Honolulu Avenue in Montrose.

  melinda clarke