Local is the new black - JP Shopping Guides

Shopping local, eating local, supporting neighborhoods and creating community seem to be THE marketing buzzwords of 2010. In this stressful economy, I can personally think of no better consumer demand, than making a difference in our own neighborhoods by becoming a part of our own main street.

We were thrilled to participate in Small Business Saturday, which offered consumers a one time $25 back on purchases made at any small business, this offer has now been extended to 12/31, so come on in and get a deep discount on Vintage ornaments, gift quality cashmere or a New Year's Eve dress.

The program was started by civic organizations and was sponsored by American Express. Say what you will about corporate sponsorship, but through a Facebook campaign, AMEX pledged and delivered 1 Million dollars to the non-profit group Girls Inc., now that is some corporate giving that I can get on board with.

Another source for really great information regarding shopping locally is the 30/50 project. They do a great job of explaining how a little can go a long way in your community.

Dame is honored to have been featured recently in several shopping guides. We especially love Stuff Magazine's take on us as a "better curated version of Nana's attic" in their guide: Shop Local, Eat Local: An off-the-beaten-path guide to holiday shopping (and après-spree noshing)

We were also super excited to be profiled by Nylon Magazine in their article: "on the road, taking the pulse of the most exciting cities in the nation"  putting JP on the fashion map in the most widely circulated street style magazine in the trade.

Here are a few of my favorite places to support my community, this is by no means an exhaustive list, just my current favs in the JP/Rosi/Hyde Park neighborhoods.

Allandale Farm: Fond of calling themselves Boston's last working farm, it's happy-making just walking around the Farm Stand. Recent Purchases: A 7ft Scotch Pine Christmas tree, that was remarkably reasonably priced and local eggs so fresh, you could taste the difference.

Townsends: My go to pub for comfort fare with a great beer selection. The bartender is personable beyond compare and nothing beats their extra large and warm roaring fireplace during a cold spell. 

Yesteryear on South Street in Jamaica Plain just up the street from the shop. There is always at least one thing that I want and there are several which have made their way into my home, like a gorgeous mid-century buffet and dining table, some terribly cute black kitchen tuxedo chairs and a matching stool. Most recently a three tiered danish modern floor lamp, just in time for our Holiday Party.  

Enjoy the season!