According to New Holland Radio Shack owner Steve Loewen, shopping in the ELANCO area means giving back to your neighbors and friends. "Local businesses are the ones that give door prizes to the Scouts and the football team," said Loewen.

Gina Dissinger, owner of the Lickity Split ice cream and sandwich shop, concurred, saying, "Shopping locally during the holiday season not only benefits your community, but it also bolsters the local economy by reinvesting funds into the hands of your friends and neighbors, ultimately supporting the local job market." Dissinger added, "This symbiotic relationship serves as a win-win scenario for all parties involved, enhancing the well-being of both shoppers and gift recipients."

Local businesses are at the heart of Lancaster County communities. What better way to celebrate the diversity, uniqueness, and creativity of independent, local businesses than by supporting them during the busiest shopping season of the year?

Before making holiday shopping lists, visit local stores and base gift ideas on items they have in stock. Chances are those gifts will be one-of-a-kind. Gifts purchased from local stores are also likely to feature a local flair, as independent businesses tend to offer products and services that are reflective of the customers and the community they serve.

Loewen noted that personalized customer service can make a difference in one's shopping experience. "A lot of people like to see, touch, and get first-hand information on a product instead of just reading about it on a screen," he said. "People who have a vested interest in the business are often more knowledgeable about the products."

As Plaid Friday and Small Business Saturday approach, marking the unofficial start of the holiday shopping season, keep an eye out for sales on local social media. Research sales and inventories of local businesses you want to support so you're ready to go once the sales launch.

Not sure what to buy? Consider a gift card to a local business, restaurant, or smaller food merchant so your loved ones can splurge on themselves and possibly discover a new favorite location. Additionally, subscriptions to small businesses such as health clubs and massage therapy services can be the gift that keeps on giving for recipients, providing ongoing benefits to the business, as well.

Purchasing gifts and gift cards isn't the only way to provide support to local businesses during this festive season. While you're shopping retailers, consider dining out at local eateries, whether that means trying a new venue or patronizing an old favorite. Holiday meals and gatherings can also be catered by area restaurants, which provides the double benefit of simplifying the hosts' to-do lists while supporting the local economy.

Families looking for the perfect tree may want to consider paying a visit to a local tree farm or nursery, where they may also find handcrafted decorations, such as wreaths and garlands, to spruce up their homes for the season.

When shopping this holiday season, look to the small, local businesses that help make Lancaster County's towns unique. "By choosing to make local purchases, you are directly contributing to the livelihood of real families who rely on your support for their daily living and your business is genuinely appreciated," pointed out Dissinger.