When preparing for the holiday season we encourage you to shop local, eat local, and be local by exploring all that Elmhurst has to offer you. Eating, drinking and buying local creates a more vibrant community and when local businesses and attractions thrive, Elmhurst does too. Here are 5 great reasons to think local first this holiday season:

Keep Money Local — Going local with your spending causes a "multiplier effect" which keeps more money re-circulating in Elmhurst. Money is kept in the community because locally-owned businesses often purchase from other local businesses and service providers and serve as an employer for countless local residents. Purchasing local supports future business growth and job creation while growing Elmhurst’s sales tax base. 

Personal Connection & Better Service — Local business owners do what they do because they are passionate about their products and typically take more time to get to know their customers. Patrons of local coffee shops Brewpoint Coffee (124 W. Park Ave.), Pilot Pete’s (128 W. First St.), and Elijah’s (136 W. Vallette St.) praise these local owner/operators for the personal experience they receive day in and day out.

Locally-Made Products — Local business owners often sell local products, which helps preserve the community’s distinction and creates more jobs locally, as well. Hazyl Boutique (106 W. Second St.), offers several "made in Elmhurst" products. Shoppers can find a variety of scented candles, including the store’s signature Hazyl candle from Blue Violet Candles as well as a wide selection  of  bath & body products including shea butter, lip balms, and sugar scrubs from ESH Scientifically Beautiful.  

Diverse Products — Local stores carry inventory you might not find at national chain stores. For example, shoppers looking for unique Elmhurst themed gifts can find Elmhurst candles, pillows, wine stoppers and other assorted gifts at Kie & Kate Couture (559 Spring Rd.), a wide variety of Elmhurst branded items from luggage tags to make-up bags at Bachabee’s Boutique (116 W. Vallette St.), York High School spirit wear and other “locally inspired” Elmhurst products at Elmhurst Photo Boutique (535 S. Spring Rd.), and tea towels, signs, ornaments and more at The Uptown Shop  (129 N. York St.). 

Support Future Growth — Shopping and dining locally is the best way to show pride in your city and help protect the businesses that make Elmhurst unique.

The businesses listed herein are only a few of many that preserve Elmhurst’s community distinction; visit www.ExploreElmhurst.com to view a directory of Elmhurst businesses, restaurants, and attractions. One-of-a-kind shops and restaurants are part of what makes Elmhurst a great place to live. Support our local businesses this season, and beyond!