Here at theHumm we’re big on local economies. The retail and service businesses in the small towns that we cover play a huge role in the cultural life of our towns. Each store, restaurant, or small enterprise attracts and serves a particular clientele — some inside the community, some from outside. Some businesses host their own special events; others join together with local festivals to make the whole experience more vibrant. Many provide support in cash or in kind to local initiatives. All of them add their own particular flavour to the delicious mix that is small-town Ottawa Valley. A healthy local economy is an essential component to a healthy community.
It is with this in mind that we bring you theHumm’s 25th annual Gift Giving Guide. Our hope is that you’ll find two kinds of inspiration in the many lists that appear throughout these issues. As you peruse the various categories, we hope you’ll discover the perfect present for everyone on your list. But we also hope that you’ll be inspired to investigate even more of the independent, locally owned and run businesses throughout our coverage area. In doing so, you’re likely to encounter not only friends and neighbours, but also some old-fashioned small town peace and joy —not to mention amazing customer service!
The gifts we buy locally do double-duty by giving pleasure to the recipient and at the same time supporting the business of a friend or neighbour. Many shops and galleries feature works by area creators and/or gifts that are eco-friendly. The money you spend in your community tends to circulate back into the local economy too, so you’ll be contributing to a wonderful ripple effect.
We would like to thank the participating merchants for taking the time to send in their Gift Giving Guide suggestions, and thank our readers for shopping locally and thereby supporting both the shops and our paper. To see photos of many of these items, subscribe to our free weekly Hummail e-newsletter! Find details at thehumm.com, or send an email to editor@thehumm.com.
Wishing you all a happy, healthy holiday season!