We all have that one local shop we can’t stop bragging about because only we have it in our community and because they make life so much easier. And let’s be real, we want them to stick around forever. In this episode, Jen and Jill share why it’s so important to keep supporting these businesses so they can stay for the long haul.
Your money is going to support things where you want it to go.
#FrugalFriendsNote
Sponsors:
- My favorite coffee shop from my college days. In August 2024, a local Orlando coffee shop that was near and dear to my heart closed its doors. The impetus for this closing was due to lack of sales that were out of their control. That summer they were forced to close their busiest location because the landlord refused to renew their lease and wouldn’t give a reason why. Four months later, a Starbucks opened in that location. I legally can’t say why a hospital in Orlando would kick out a successful locally owned coffee shop in favor of a publicly traded company but I will say I no longer give my money to Starbucks. This episode is dedicated to them.
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When You Give to The Community, The Community Gives Back to You
This article by Metro Family Magazine explores the benefits of buying local.
What Jen + Jill have to say:
Jen and Jill found that for every $100 spent at a locally-owned business, $73 stays in the local economy. And when profits stay local, it increases the community’s wealth. Meaning, when we buy local, we improve the economy and the quality of life of the community through indirectly contributing to the services they provide for us like fire protection, policemen, street repairs, and trash collection.
Moreover, buying locally increases employment, builds personal connections, and provides more knowledge about what we’re buying. It also offers greater variety at more cost-effective prices. After all, there’s nothing like feeling proud of your community, and one way to show your support and ensure its longevity is to shop locally.
There’s Nothing Like a Product Bought Locally
Jen and Jill also highlight the benefits of purchasing locally made products, such as a more convenient experience, greater variety, higher quality, and a more personalized approach. Like those “one-of-a-kind” finds only your community offers or getting advice from passionate business owners who are experts in their field.
Local shop owners go beyond the typical buyer-seller relationship to guide you through your customer journey, making their businesses stand out. Jen and Jill believes this is likely why it’s worth spending a little extra to support them. Because not only are you helping your community, you’re also helping yourself build the community you want to see in 10 years or more.
What’s your favorite thing to buy locally?
Jill loves local food restaurants and local thrift stores while Jen loves local services (she just got a local cleaner!)
Bill of The Week
Thank you Raf for sharing your bill about a non-bill for your 7 year old to engage in martial arts for FREE! Saving $2,400 per year!
Thanks so Much for Listening!
Thanks so much for listening. We love love love reading your kind reviews of Buy What You Love Without Going Broke and we especially loved this one from:
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Spending is a skill that Jen Smith and Jill Sirianni from the Frugal Friends Podcast know well. Throughout their journeys to frugality, they’ve learned how to be better spenders, investing in items and experiences that match their current seasons and values. It’s value-based spending that the book is all about, with chapters full of timeless advice, helpful exercises, and ways to get real about what matters most to you. Rather than scold you for not being a better “saver,” the authors teach you how to buy the things you love without going broke.
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