'Tis the season to go shopping! How you do it, could actually make for a very Merry Christmas for your community. Sometimes we forget the impact that buying from a local business can have.

Saturday is "Small Business Saturday", a chance to support local merchants while enjoying sales too. Here's why you should go and continue to all season long.

  • Townsquare Media
    Townsquare Media
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    1

    Helping Your Local Economy

    When you buy from a local business, the money goes right back into our community. It's pretty simple really. The company isn't based outside of the area, so more taxes are paid here by them.

  • Justin Sullivan/Getty Images
    Justin Sullivan/Getty Images
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    2

    Jobs!

    When we buy local, the local businesses are more successful and that leads to more jobs.

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    Sandra Mu/Getty Images
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    3

    Discovering New and Interesting Shops

    The Southern Tier is packed with unique stores. Just down the street from the station is a cool little place that sells wind chimes and other things.  These one of a kind shops help shape our community character and you get to think outside the box for gifts.

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    Hemera
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    4

    Local Investment

    When you invest in a local merchant by shopping with them, they, in turn do the same in our community. Whether it's expanding, hiring or supporting local charities. It's a great way to build our home.

  • China Photos/Getty Images
    China Photos/Getty Images
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    5

    Personal Connection

    There is no better feeling than being acknowledged by someone you buy from. They learn your needs and you can count on them in a way you can't with a national chain. I walked up to a local grocery store owner and asked about them carrying a certain product. By the next trip, the product was on the shelf!

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