[queenofthehivemomof5]

I try. Not for groceries however. But for other things I try and support local businesses when I can. However, the selection here is pretty slim and when you choose to shop at a smaller local businesses the prices are much higher.

So in order for the smaller buisnesses to compete with the big box stores they have to specialize in higher quality, name brands. An example we have a small toy store that sells higher quality educational toys versus barbie dolls at Walmart. So yes I will spend $20 on a set of wooden puzzles rather than $20 on a Dora the explorer doll.

However there is also a small children's clothing boutique that sells very cute but very expensive clothing. If my kids need a new pair of pajamas I just cannot fathom spending $40 for a pair of PJ's so Walmart gets my buisness there. My mother in law and my daughter once did a local fashion show and they gave my daughter the outfit that she wore in the show. Total retail was over $250 for this outfit which was nothing more than a pair of teal corderoys, a striped turtleneck and a UGLY coat that she never wore again.

There is a small store downtown that sells great cross stitch kits and supplies and her prices are twice that I would spend elseware, but her service is excellent. She will hand pick the colored floss you need, make suggestions on where to get a peice framed, offers classes, AND her store sells some other awesome cool stuff.

We have a kitchen store downtown that sells good quality kitchen supplies and I always go there for any major purchases as they are the only store in town that sells quality kitchen stuff. However, I like online shopping too.

We have developed personal relationships with some of the local merchants here in town and if you know where to look you can find coupons and discounts at mom and pop stores too.