Have you ever heard of the 3/50 project? It's a project started to raise awareness of the independently owned businesses - 'saving the bricks and mortars our nation is built on.' The website describes how you can save your local economy...three stores at a time.
It's a simple concept really. Choose three independently owned businesses, the ones you'd miss most if they were gone. Stop by, say hello, pick up a little something for yourself or someone else.
If just half of the employed U.S. population spent $50 each month in these independent businesses (a total of $50, not $50 in each store), more than $42.6 billion in revenue would be generated. For every $50 spent in independently owned stores, $34 returns to the community. Compare that to only $21.50 returning to the community at a national chain, or $0 from an online purchase.
Here's how you could shop in Shepherdstown for Valentine's Day:
- Buy 1/2 lb. Shepherdstown Blend coffee at the German Street Coffee & Candlery, plus some romantic scented candles for the evening. How about a nice bottle of wine or some gourmet cheese and crackers to go with?
- Make a reservation at Stone Soup Bistro for dinner. Not only are they an independent business, they get their menu ingredients locally as well.
- Pick up a book of poetry at the Four Seasons Book Store and a charming card to go with it.
- DeFluri's chocolates (made locally in Martinsburg), along with wine and craft beers, are available at Gourmet Grapes and Grains.
- A beautiful custom-made necklace from Plum stamped with a monogram and a heart is the perfect unique gift.
- Stop by Dickinson & Wait Craft Gallery for a beautiful hand-thrown vase for your Valentine's Day flowers.
There are a million more ideas within our three little blocks of shops in Sheherdstown. Every store on German Street and Princess Street is independently-owned. Most of the restaurants and two of the lodging options are as well. Make this your year to embrace the 3/50 project whenever you shop. We small business owners will be glad you did!
Jeanne & Jim at the
Thomas Shepherd Inn B&B in Shepherdstown, WV
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