Three Things You Can Do to Remember to Shop Local

Because your neighbor’s business is worth remembering.

In a world where convenience often means tapping a button and having a package appear on your doorstep, it's easy to forget that the heart of our communities beats inside small local businesses. You know the ones — the shop where they know your name, the bakery that remembers your favorite scone, the family-run hardware store that helped you fix your porch light.

We all mean to shop local more. But sometimes life gets busy, and Amazon is open at midnight. So how do we make it easier to follow through on our good intentions? Here are three simple but powerful ways to remember to support local businesses — and make it part of your everyday routine.

1. Make a Local Favorites List

Create a running list of your go-to local spots: coffee shops, boutiques, service providers, farmers markets, you name it. Keep it on your phone or stick it to your fridge. That way, the next time you need a gift, a bite to eat, or a quick errand done, you’ll already have a list of options right in front of you. Bonus: It feels good to see how many places are part of your local economy.

Pro Tip: Tag your favorite small business on our Facebook so we can add them to our business directory.

2. Follow and Favorite on Social Media

Out of sight, out of mind, right? Flip that script. Follow your favorite local makers, restaurants, and shops on Instagram, Facebook, or TikTok. Like their posts, leave comments, and share their specials or events. The more you see them in your feed, the more likely you are to remember them when you’re making purchasing decisions.

Pro Tip: Bookmark Prairie Goods and sign up for our newsletter to stay more engaged.

3. Schedule a Monthly “Shop Local Day”

Pick one day a month and dedicate it to shopping local. Whether it’s treating yourself to a local lunch, browsing a new store, or buying a gift from a small business instead of a chain, putting it on your calendar makes it real. Over time, this small habit becomes something you look forward to — and something your town’s businesses will feel and appreciate.

Pro Tip: Invite a friend. A local shopping day is even better with coffee and conversation.

Here’s the truth: Shopping local isn’t just about economics — though it helps your community thrive. It’s about connection, character, and building a place you actually want to live in.

And the best part? Every dollar you spend locally makes a ripple. So next time you're about to click "Buy Now," ask yourself: Could I find this closer to home?

You might be surprised by how many amazing businesses are right in your backyard — and how much stronger your community feels when you remember to support them.