'Tis the season to celebrate many things. Among them are our local retailers, who help define the “mom and pop” character of our Northwest Philadelphia neighborhoods. While big-box retailers and online giants might seem like the easiest choice when it comes to last-minute shopping, there's a compelling case for turning to your local mom-and-pop shops – especially when time is running short. 

So we here at the Local, inspired by "The Twelve Days of Christmas," decided to give you 12 compelling reasons why our neighborhood shops should be your last-minute heroes of the holiday.

Let’s count them down, shall we?

1. Personal service

When you rush into Windfall Gallery, owner Cynthia Fillmore doesn't just point you to a hanging rack. She becomes your personal gift-finding detective, drawing on years of experience to match the perfect present to your favorite friend, or teenager. 

2. A short walk away

Instead of fighting traffic at the mall or anxiously tracking shipping times, you can stroll down Germantown Avenue and visit multiple shops within minutes. Shopping on the “Hill” means you can make the trek from Cresheim Valley Drive to Bethlehem Pike - and you’re likely to run into some familiar faces along the way. 

3. Gift wrapping

Unlike big box stores with their pick-it-yourself paper rolls, lots of Northwest Philadelphia shops offer complimentary gift wrapping with artful choices in paper and ribbon. No more late-night wrestling with wrapping paper.

4. Custom options

Local shopkeepers like Molly Ellis  at Threadwell will personalize your tote bags, backpacks, or other items virtually on the spot. Want that wallet or winter scarf monogrammed? She’s got you covered.

5. Local brands

Shopping locally helps preserve the unique character of our neighborhoods. Each independent store reflects its owner's particular passion and personality, and creates a shopping experience that can't be replicated by national chains. Local shops are also more likely to stock items from neighborhood artisans and makers – gifts you literally cannot find anywhere else, unless you travel far, far away. 

6. Shopkeepers helping

Like all good neighbors, our local shop owners network with each other. Can't find what you need at one shop, the owner will call their fellow businessperson a few blocks away to check their stock for you.

7.  Many days extended

Many of our local shops are extending their hours during the holiday season, with some even offering private shopping appointments after regular hours. 

8. Gift suggestions

Yes, local retailers know their inventory, but they also know you. They’re ready and willing to help you find just the right thing for that special someone. 

9. Instant solutions

When you need it now, local shops have it now – no need to stress over shipping delays or online inventory snafus. 

10. Carbon footprint

Local shopping often means less packaging waste and shorter transportation distances. making your last-minute gift shopping more sustainable. Some local retailers make a special point of that. 

11. Community causes

When you spend $100 at a local business, approximately $68 stays in your community, compared to just $43 when shopping at a large retailer. This money circulates through your neighborhood, as local businesses support local causes. You never know when your dollars may wind up helping to restore the Chestnut Hill Water Tower, for instance, or fund a new tree for Pastorius Park. 

12. Neighbors working

Shopping locally means supporting jobs in your community, all the way from whoever owns the store down to their employees – many of whom are local teenagers.

One more for, uh, good luck

13.  Making memories

When the holiday clock starts ticking, remember that your local retailers aren't just stores. They’re your neighbors, and they're ready to help make your last-minute shopping not just successful, but memorable. After all, gift-giving isn’t just about the gift itself. It’s the story that goes with it. 

So skip the online shopping stress and mall parking chaos. Step out on Stag and Doe night or Decemberfest in the Northwest because these 13 gifts of local shopping aren't just for Christmas – they're available all year round, and they make our communities stronger, one purchase at a time.