Five years ago I moved my hairstyling business downtown and realized how much I missed the downtown shopping. How easy it made life. So, last year all my holiday shopping was done downtown. Toys at Heims, wine, gift certificates at the great restaurants and coffee shops. Finding great little treasures at the Christmas store, Boobe, Equinox or Bella Ancora. Shopping for menswear at S.J. Crystals and Bjorns. Of course hair salon gift certificates or styling aids, or gas gift certificates from Bert and Rudy’s Mobil (what 17-year-old wouldn’t love that?). Even if you can’t do it all downtown, try to go local. Go to Andrea’s or Tenuta’s.

With this economy and all the road contruction this year many places have suffered greatly. Think local when shopping. Make it easy on yourself and spend more time with friends and family this season and not in the big malls.

Dawn Bella

Kenosha