Editor's note: All opinions, columns and letters reflect the views of the individual writer and not necessarily those of the IDS or its staffers.
As the holiday season approaches, there's a familiar sight that comes with it: the steady stream of packages arriving on our doorsteps. We’re used to the ease of online shopping from sites such as Amazon, which provide anything you may need. It's a fast and convenient solution to gift-giving during a stressful season. But this year, as the holiday season begins to unfold, my family has decided to make an extra effort to shop locally.
In Bloomington, there’s a treasure trove of local businesses offering unique, thoughtful gifts that don’t have to break the bank. The more I thought about it, the more I realized how much potential there is right here in our own community for finding gifts that are personal, meaningful and often made with love by local artisans and entrepreneurs.
Morgensterns Books is a great option for readers in your life, featuring an excellent selection of books and other gifts. It’s a place where you can discover the perfect read for anyone on your list, as well as puzzles, activity sets and other local products. There’s something special about browsing books with a coffee at your local bookstore. And if Morgenstern’s doesn’t have what you’re looking for, the staff can always order it for you.
For those looking to add a little pizzaz to their holiday gifts, badknees Tees has just what you need. Its quirky, locally designed shirts are a great gift for anyone. Whether it’s a funny slogan or an artistic design inspired by Bloomington itself, these shirts make a great gift for anyone with a sense of humor. The store also sells stickers, magnets and coffee mugs.
If you need a stocking stuffer or you have to get a gift for someone you don’t know well, the locally owned popcorn store PopKorn is a solid option. They have all sorts of fun and interesting flavors such as chocolate mint, Peppermint Wonderland and the cherry flavored IU-themed Cream and Crimson popcorn. You can choose from five different sizes, so there’s something for all budgets.
Shopping locally during the holidays offers benefits that positively impact both your community and your holiday experience. By supporting small, independently owned businesses, you help them thrive and keep money circulating within the local economy, which in turn helps create jobs and strengthens your community.
Shopping locally also reduces your environmental footprint by cutting down on shipping and packaging. When products are sourced locally, they don't need to travel long distances, which means less fuel consumption and fewer greenhouse emissions. Local stores are often more environmentally conscious and sometimes even use recyclable packaging, further reducing waste.
Amazon may be a convenient way to shop, but it feels good to support Bloomington businesses. As we navigate the holiday season, shopping locally offers a meaningful way to find thoughtful gifts, but also an opportunity to make a positive impact here at home.
By supporting Bloomington's local businesses, we strengthen our community bonds, reduce our environmental impact and help fuel the growth of the local economy. The personal touch of a locally sourced gift carries its own value — whether it’s a carefully chosen book, a quirky t-shirt, or a bag of delicious, handcrafted popcorn, Bloomington has your holiday shopping needs covered.
Jack Davis (he/him) is a sophomore studying journalism.
