Online shopping is appealing. One click and done, but what if it really arrives? Is it the quality and fit you were expecting? And what did you get out of the experience?
Walk into a shop, be greeted, make a selection (with assistance), have it gift-wrapped, and walk out with present in hand. You also interacted with a local resident and perhaps saw some friends or made some new ones.
By shopping locally, you help provide stable jobs for your friends and neighbors. You also spent money that will stay in the local economy. According to the American Independent Small Business Alliance, independent local businesses recirculate 48% of their revenue locally while chain retailers only retain 14% of the same. Furthermore, if every US family spent just $10 a month at an independent business in a local economy, over 9.3 billion dollars would be directly returned to the local economy. That is a win-win on your purchase.
And don’t forget about reducing your carbon footprint, shopping in your own backyard decreases fuel shipping costs.
The “in-store” shopping experience cannot be replaced. No one is there when ordering online to bring you another size, the right accessories, or even a better style for you. The online sales associate does not know what you already have in your closet from previous seasons. They don’t know about the particular event you are attending, and what others are wearing.
Sometimes a garment needs alterations to make it “perfect.” I can pin the necessary adjustments and have it altered for you. Sometimes we can “magically” have it ready within 24-48 hours. I have an experienced team – Jill, Terri, Maryanne, Stephanie, Annette, Rachel and Felese – that can also assist you.
Pappagallo welcomes the opportunity to offer you unique, fashionable clothing and accessories. We offer jewelry – both fine and trendy. Many of our brands are exclusive to us for our area. We offer gift certificates (the gift that always fits).
Need the perfect outfit for your holiday soirée? We are here to help.
Thank you for allowing me another year of doing what I love. I wish you and yours a very Merry Christmas. Remember the reason for the season and to shop small.
-by Nicki Smith
About the Author: Nicki Smith has been in the fashion industry for over 40 years. She is the owner of and buyer for Pappagallo, located at 2020 Scottsville Road in Bowling Green (The Pines Shopping Center, next to Chico’s).
