Think
Local
First

Independent businesses invest up to 3x more back into our local economy, hire more local people, and have been a powerful pathway to the middle class. Places with more local businesses have less income inequality, stronger social ties, and more character!

 

This holiday season Think Local First to help invest in a future that works for all of us!

We’ve taken the guesswork out of searching for the perfect gifts!

Navigate by price range or gift category so you can find the ideal gift for everyone on your list! And all from locally owned businesses. The hardest part of your holiday shopping now is deciding which spectacularly curated and crafted treasures to bring home with you.

Discover New Shops & Services

Look for Window Decals

Not sure how to tell a locally owned business apart from the rest? Look for these window decals in storefronts to let you know, or ask about the shop’s story inside!

Find just what you’re looking for.
Peruse locally owned businesses by categories like Recreation, Beer Wine & Spirits, and Florists & Nurseries.

Save With Chinook Book

Save with coupons at tons of local businesses. Earn rewards, or give as a gift! Download the free trial or purchase for $15.

Eat Local For the Holidays!

We’ve made it easy to find local ingredients

This is a special time of year for local food. You might be wondering what could possibly be in season, but luckily there are lots of locally sourced ingredients to choose from. We’re here to help you find them. Continue on to find a handy shopping list of holiday must-haves that can be found locally and additional resources for a locally sourced happy holiday season.

1. A thriving local economy

Local retailers hire local people and source more goods locally. They invest up to 3x more into our local community and hire more people per dollar of revenue. Independent businesses also help give our community it’s distinct personality. One of a kind businesses means one of a kind community. When you shop local, you help keep our character alive.

 

2. You Benefit From Local Expertise

Local businesses select products based on the needs of local customers, not on a national sales plan. At a local store, you’re 3x more likely to discover something new.

 

2. Invest in our future

Starting a small business has long been a pathway to the middle class. By supporting local entrepreneurs, you invest in a future that works for all of us. Places with more small businesses have less income inequality.

 

4. Gain Better Public Services

More local businesses mean a stronger tax base. This means better public services like schools, transportation, and emergency responders. Local businesses also donate 2x more per sales dollar to local events, teams, and charities!

 

5. Reduce Impacts On Our Environment

Locally owned businesses make more local purchases requiring less transportation and set up shop in town or city centers which mean less sprawl, congestion, habitat loss, and pollution. And many more here…

Attend Festive Events

November 2018

Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday

 

 

 

 

 

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Downtown Bellingham Art Walk
11th Annual WWU ReMade Opening @ Ideal

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Downtown Bellingham Holiday Wine Walk

 

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Home For The Holidays

 

 

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Allied Arts Holiday Festival Begins
Home For The Holidays

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Home For The Holidays

 

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Thanksgiving

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Fairhaven Holiday Festival & Art Walk

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Shop Small Saturday

 

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Whatcom Museum Holiday Cocktail Party

 

Olde Fashioned Christmas

 

Thank You Think Local First Sponsors!