There are just a few shopping days left until Christmas, and now more than ever it is important that shoppers remember to spend their dollars locally when possible.  There are many merchants in Chattooga County that depend on the support of the community and the Holiday season is a great time to remember those local businesses.

When you purchase at locally owned businesses rather than nationally owned, more money is kept in the community because locally-owned businesses often purchase from other local businesses, service providers and farms. Purchasing local helps grow other businesses as well as the local tax base.

Several downtown merchants in Summerville have been staying open until 10 PM on Friday’s to encourage spending Holiday dollars at home.  Mandy Ward with The Ruby Slipper in Summerville told WZQZ News that the merchants decided that would be a way to give local residents more options when shopping for Christmas.  Olivia Meyers with Meyers Vintage & Local just opened her new store in Summerville and is participating with The Ruby Slipper, DIRT & DIRT Pour, Hayden Taylor Designs, Ga-Ga’s Boutique, D&S Mercantile and Three Penny Treasure in extending holiday hours on Friday evenings.

Also, Morris Jewelers in downtown Summerville has extended their holiday hours and are open from 10 AM-5 PM now through Saturday.

WZQZ encourages everyone to spend some Holiday dollars with locally owned, independent businesses.