Local Business Owners: 10 Reasons to Shop Local

After hearing the news that BJ’s Blings and Things would be closing its doors for good, one local business owner thought it would be a good opportunity to remind the community of the importance of shopping local. 

Dawn Wilson, an owner of Side Street Framers in Severna Park, said she had no idea Blings and Things was closing and the news touched her personally.

“It is so important for our local residents to support our small locally owned business, or we may see more have to close,” Wilson said.  “I don't think people always realize that where they chose to spend their money makes such a huge difference for these local businesses.”

Wilson, who owns Side Street Framers with her mom, said she and Franklin’s Toys owner Jeff Franklin co-chair the Severna Park Chamber’s Shop Local program. She and Franklin work hard to promote small-town business.

“It's these businesses that keep our community unique and interesting, and they are the ones that support our local schools and charities,” Wilson said.

With Blings and Things' sudden closure, Wilson felt it was an opportunity to remind the community of the importance of small business. You can read more about "10 Reasons Why You Should Shop Local" in the PDF above. 

What's your favorite local business? Tell us in the comments.