I think supporting local businesses is something that's been on everyone's minds since the pandemic, but I think as we've gotten further from 2020, it's less top of mind," said Mary Auker-Endres, owner of Snake + Skein in Elizabethtown. "I would love to see our community rally around our local places again and also really see the depth and breadth of businesses we have right here in Elizabethtown that you don't have to drive to Lancaster or Harrisburg to see."

With that in mind, Auker-Endres had a conversation with other female business owners in town and the Elizabethtown Women's Shop Trail was born.

From now through Saturday, Oct. 26, the shop trail will encourage people to check out the variety of small businesses located throughout Elizabethtown.

"We have all kinds of businesses - bakeries, coffee shops, retail stores, a photography studio, so much more," Auker-Endres shared. "Many businesses will have specials, and all will be excited to welcome folks. There are two giveaways for people visiting all or almost all of the businesses participating. Plus, you get the feel-good benefit of supporting local women."

To get started, shoppers should visit any of the participating businesses to pick up a map, which shop employees will mark off to note their stop.

"When they're done, they'll turn those completed maps into WhirliGig Boutiques by Nov. 1st, and we'll draw winners from those who completed all or most of the trail," Auker-Endres said, noting that specific details are listed on the maps. "And each business on the trail contributed two prizes, so we'll have a least two huge giveaway baskets." WhirliGig Boutiques is located at 206 S. Market St., Elizabethtown.

Auker-Endres opened her business, a fiber arts store, in early June. She's passionate about supporting small businesses, and she noted that in addition to the shop trail, a Women's Business Expo will be held on Thursday, Oct. 24, for any women-owned businesses without a physical location. Business owners who are interested in participating may email etownwomensshoptrail@gmail.com for more information.

In the meantime, she said she hopes the shop trail will bring foot traffic into Elizabethtown businesses, adding that people will learn more about the town.

"They can expect to discover their new favorite local place - try new foods, find a new hobby or pick up a cute new outfit," she said. "There's something for everybody."

For more information on the trail, search for "Elizabethtown Women's Shop Trail" on Facebook.