While we’re all making plans to have ‘A Merry Little Christmas’, residents of the Southeast are being encouraged to also have ‘A Merry Local Christmas’, which will net three lucky shoppers $500 in high-end local products.

Michelle Bezditny, Executive Director of the Steinbach Chamber of Commerce, explains the Buy, Brag & Tag initiative.

“First, you buy. Show your love for local by purchasing something from a business here in the Southeast. Next, brag! Post about your purchase on Facebook or Instagram, either with a picture showcasing the local product you just bought, or by sharing a post of a local business you support and love. Then tag #SteinbachChamber and #AMerryLocalChristmas.”

Bezditny says you can share the love by tagging a local business, or a friend, or challenge a friend or two to keep the love for local spreading.

“Every post shared on social media will get you a chance to win one of 3 incredible prize packs, valued at $500 each,” says Bezditny. “One prize pack will be for personal services, another will be filled with home and family entertainment, and the third will be gourmet food!”

Bezditny says that shopping local directly supports community wellness and economic growth in Southeastern Manitoba.

“Local businesses are going into the 2021 holiday season after a tumultuous year and a half. And these are the businesses that care about our region – local businesses consider social responsibility and local philanthropy a priority, so they generously support our community’s not-for-profit organizations, which in turn rely on the success of our local businesses.”

By shopping locally, shoppers of the Southeast keep benefits close to home, Bezditny explains.

“They also hire a local workforce, so individuals and families can live, work, and play in our region.”

Apart from the economic benefits of shopping locally, Bezditny points out the immediate practicalities as well.

“One of the nice things about shopping local is that you don't have to hope someone doesn’t steal it off your front porch. You can just quickly drive to the business and pick up your item directly. It’s efficient and secure.”

Steinbach is a community built on generosity, kindness, and trust – and right now, Bezditny says the holiday shopping season is an opportunity to shop locally and support businesses that support local non-profits that help families right here in our community.

“Shopping local, especially during the busiest shopping month of the year, is paramount to the success of our local businesses,” shares Bezditny. “So, from all of us at the Steinbach Chamber, both Board and Staff, we encourage you to support local, and we wish everyone a very festive holiday season.”

To find out more about ‘A Merry Local Christmas’ and to discover special deals on offers from December 1st to 22nd at many Southeast businesses, visit www.SupportLocalSteinbach.com