Last year I had the easiest and best holiday shopping experience of my life.

I don’t even remember how it happened. I just remember that last year several friends and I met on November 14th and we attended an event called The Working Girls Party. The event included a meal at Olfactory Hue Bistro and subsequent shopping for Christmas presents and decorations at participating retailers on Main Street.

The turnout last year was excellent. Within a few minutes of entering each store, there was a festive sense of comradery among the shoppers. Before you knew it, we were helping one another find the ideal gift and happily offering suggestions and opinions to complete strangers. In an hour and a half shopping trip with friends, I completed 95 percent of my holiday shopping. In the upbeat environment of each store, I found unique gifts that really suited each person on my list. Best of all, many of the items were made in the U.S.A.

This year, on Thursday Nov. 13 between 6:30 to 10 p.m., Niles Styles owner Christine Hoffman is spearheading another holiday shopping event.

Chris said, “This year we are calling the event It’s my Party! because November 13th is my birthday.”

Bella’s, Olfactory Hue, and Signal Travel are all helping Niles Styles celebrate Chris’ birthday. They are offering special deals and discounts, and will be serving wine, goodies and cake. Visit Signal Travel to learn about the latest in travel and to register for door prizes. Olfactory Hue will be serving Chris’ favorite, spinach quesadilla, as well as other gourmet dinner selections. Please call Daysha at 687-0880 for dinner reservations and Christine at 684-8484 for party reservations.

Upon reflection, I guess I always thought that “shop local” was a good idea, but that its real purpose was to support local business. After my holiday shopping experience last year, I began to realize that to shop locally really helps me. I get exhausted just thinking about the time and energy it takes to shop during the holidays at a crowded Mall (say to walk from Macy’s to JC Penney).

The best tip I can give you for enjoying your holiday shopping is to register today for It’s My Party! It may be Chris’ birthday, but trust me you will feel like it is your party.

 

Jeanne Watson is a sixth generation Niles resident who wants to see the downtown strong once again. Jeanne has volunteered her time with the Niles Main Street/DDA for nearly 15 years. She can be reached at jeanne0503@comcast.net.