Bakersfield Life

I would venture to bet that you and I are doing the same thing this time of year. We’re making a list of whom we need to buy for, and frantically scouring the ads to find that perfect gift. Mix in taking the kids to the Bakersfield Christmas parade, the Magical Forest, HolidayLights at CALM and picking up a few other Christmas events here and there. Yes, this is a busy time of year for all of us.
 
I always struggle with what to by certain family members. I can ask and ask what they want and the response is normally the same. These few will tell me things like, “Just get me a card,” or “I don’t know … maybe a nice sweater.” Now I know I bought a few sweaters last year and I would like to have an original and great gift for them under the tree on Christmas morning. A card just isn’t going to cut it.
 
I haven’t become an online holiday shopper yet, and with good reason. Although I may look online to find gift ideas, I always to go into a store and make my purchase. I go in expecting to come out with more than I went in for and gather ideas for additional gifts while I’m there. I’m always looking for ideas.
 
The one thing I have learned over the years, is that many local retailers are ordering gifts early in the season. Trust me, the owners of local shops work hard to bring wonderful special items to Bakersfield.
 
This time of year I have this urge to buy local. Yes, it is easier to buy online and if a local merchant has an online point of purchase I may do so. But in this economy, one that will undoubtedly have you checking your shopping list twice, I feel a need to keep my dollars in Bakersfield. Supporting local retailers brings a great pride to a community, one that is measured by the growth of our local business owners that put in countless hours to employ our residents and give back to the community. In a way, I am giving back to my community by shopping local. Many local merchants are very active in the community and give their time and resources to make Bakersfield a better place to live.
 
So as we make our lists this year and determine what we want to buy for whom, lets take a few extra minutes and see if we can keep our purchase this season in Bakersfield. It means so much to our community that we support each other, this year more than ever.
 
In the November issue of Bakersfield Life, you will find great gift ideas from some of our local merchants. As you’re looking for something special, take a few minutes and drop buy some of these locations to find the perfect gift for anyone on your list.
 
 
Chris Thompson
Specialty Publications Manager
The Bakersfield Californian