This Season, Let's Make NJ Shine

Hi there, Karen from Shinyhappydangles here. I wanted to stop by to write about New Jersey’s small businesses and how they give our communities personality, creativity, and charm. This holiday season, shopping small is not just a trend—it’s a commitment to the community around us. I am a one woman show located in Monmouth County and I handcraft unique woven chainmaille jewelry. Here are some thoughts, tips and ideas for your holiday shopping this year.

When you choose to support local, you’re choosing to support dreams, families, and the vibrancy of our towns.

You Support the People Behind the Business

Small business owners are your friends & your neighbors. 

They’re the people working the booth at holiday fairs in the cold, staying up late to fulfill custom orders, and personally greeting you when you walk into a booth or shop.

Shopping small means:

*Someone celebrates when you place an order. (Seriously)

*Someone does a  happy dance when you choose them. (Ask me, I’ll show you mine)

*Someone can pay their bills, continue creating, or keep their doors open because of you. (Creativity & Art=Community)

How You Can Support Small in New Jersey This Season

* Shop in person at local markets and downtown districts.

* Buy from local makers online—many offer pickup or fast local delivery. Did you know you can even search by location on Websites like Etsy or Google Shopping?

* Share posts from your favorite small businesses. These cost you nothing but can increase visibility!  

* Recommend them to friends and family

* Choose handmade or locally crafted gifts over mass-produced items

*  Attend local fairs & holiday markets- 

You can google local events or search on Facebook & Instagram

Or check out https://www.njeventsscene.com/event-details

Karen Bellitto is the maker/owner of Shinyhappydangles out of Monmouth County New Jersey 

www.shinyhappydangles.com