A Savvy Shopper resolution: Shop local

In December 2009 — yes, I had to look through the archives for that date — I publicly promised readers that I would spend more dollars in locally owned stores in the upcoming year.

I'm happy to report that I have kept that promise. I'd let you check my bank statement, but, well, I'm not willing to let my promise become quite that public.

A growing number of shoppers are joining me.In 2010, a new retail holiday celebrating local businesses — Small Business Saturday — was hatched to create buzz around Main Street during the Black Friday frenzy.

That movement grew exponentially this year, and the "Shop Local" idea spread through social media outlets, TV commercials and radio spots.

Shopping with your conscience will be in vogue in 2012 as political debates head toward a boiling point, and consumers begin to voice their opinions with their pocketbooks.

The "Made in America" movement continues to maintain strength, as well, and the crafting community's cry for support seems to be resonating more than ever.

Convenience will continue to rule, but more and more of us are willing to step away from the automated glass doors and fluorescent lights and into a much smaller, homier, boutique, where the owner will greet you with an enthusiastic smile.

As for me, I found some of my best deals in locally owned shops on the Peninsula this year. I get so much joy out of pushing my new double stroller around town, for example. Instead of dropping $200 (or more) at Target, I spent $40 at Chelsea's Closet, a Hilton Village consignment store.

I purchased one of my mother-in-law's favorite Christmas gifts — a gift set containing various pepper jelly flavors — from the first annual Bodacious Bazaar in Hampton.

And I bought my 3-year-old son's soccer-themed Christmas ornament at Beach Treats Gifts in Peninsula Town Center for at least $3 less than the mall's price.

Even my son loves to shop local. During a recent "Mommy and Son" outing, we headed to Phoebus after enjoying the Virginia Air & Space Center in Hampton. It was to be a quick in-the-door-and-back-out-again shopping experience, I predicted.

Every store owner gushed over my little boy, handed him goodies and treated him like a king. When mom was done shopping, Brody begged to keep going.

The marketing technique worked, as I spent an unplanned $100 that evening.

So as you go about your retail purchases in the upcoming year, I challenge you to think local. Stop by and visit Tish at Countryside Gardens in Hampton. Or say hello to Jenn at Quirks of Art in Williamsburg. I promise, they will be thrilled to see you.

And, local business owners, here is your official notice: Let us know you're here with a note on the Savvy Shopper Facebook page or in an advertisement in the Daily Press.

Reach out with a suggestion for this column or plan a special event that showcases your specialty.

I intend to spend more of my money in local stores this year, and I want to know where I can shop.