Living in Napa Valley for over a year and blogging for over four, I’ve had some wonderful opportunities to partner up with many amazing individuals and brands in the past. I gotta say, being able to support local businesses and to connect on a more personal level is always one of my favorite things to do as a blogger – something that gives what I do a special meaning.
You see, blogging is not only about taking photos of pretty things and places. To me, what matters the most is connecting and building long-lasting relationships. Especially, right here in my beloved California.
Why Support Local Businesses?
Since I get a lot of questions about blogging and where to start, I thought I will touch once again on the importance of shopping small and working with small businesses – first AND foremost. Yes, reaching for stars and big franchise is always nice, and the recognition you might get could be quintessential to you career, but working on connections right here where you live will ultimately bring you a more sustainable growth.
photography by Kayla Alaska Taylor
Personal connection
I cannot stress it enough. Having a personal connection and knowing the person behind the actual brand is something you shouldn’t take for granted. I know these days we try to be super efficient with our time. That is why more often than not we will rely on the Internet and social media because the virtual connection is just so instant.
However, whenever time and place allows, I strongly suggest choosing to meet in person rather than continue talking about a possible partnership over phone calls/ emails. I believe going out of your way and driving to a place of businesses to see how you vibe with the person behind the brand is priceless. Yes, sometimes it may feel intimidating. In fact, it usually is for me, but somehow I always come back from a meeting more inspired than ever.
Love what you do and you’ll never feel like working
It’s so true. Working on countless photo shoots I can honestly say there’s nothing else that gives me more joy. Yes, they usually require a lot of time from scouting locations, prepping, shooting to post-production, but when you get together with like-minded and creative souls… Well, it makes it all feel like a breeze.
Being a blogger, I get to shoot with a lot of photographers, mostly those that are local to Napa but also those who I get to meet during my work trips (see a list of them here). Connecting over mutual ideas and goals is definitely something I love and am so grateful for.
Let’s take Kayla Alaska Taylor who I recently met and shot these photos with as an example. Just a few days after we connected on Instagram, we decided to meet in person and go straight to creating something cool together. And we had a blast! We spent about 3 hours shooting different looks and it didn’t feel like work at all! I believe that even all the editing and promoting each other on social media didn’t feel like too much effort either, because we were truly excited about working together and the actual photos. Once again – support local businesses and entrepreneurs because it’s fun, exciting, special and so rewarding!
Support your local economy
That’s probably one of the most obvious reasons why you should support local businesses because it’s a valid point. Shopping small often means the products were locally sourced and created with the kind of soul that you simply can’t put a price on. Think about it. Have you ever bought something that was only sold in that one place of business or you could only get it locally? How did those purchases make you feel? Special? I thought so! It’s the same when you work with local brands and entrepreneurs.
RELATED POST: THE IMPORTANCE OF SHOPPING SMALL
sweater: Malus Marcoo pants: H&M shoes: Qupid via Boho Lifestyle Boutique
Do you love to support local businesses? What is your favorite way to do so?
Tell me about your experiences! Please and thank you. 😉
love this top and supporting local businesses!
Same! It’s so rewarding and exciting at the same time! xoxo
I completely understand what you mean. I actually only started succeeding in blogging when I started connecting with other local bloggers and businesses. Your photos are amazing ?
That’s amazing – glad you agree! Focusing on building a community right where you actually live is so important! Not only for your business but also your soul! xoxo
Good customer service is everything!
Couldn’t agree more! Thanks for stopping by, Farrah!
I love that top! It is so unique! And I definitely agree with this post!!
Thank you for stopping by and loving the post, Kimberly!
Yes girl yes! I absolutely agree, it’s so wonderful to feel a true sense of belonging and connection to the community around you. Loved reading this!
xoxo – Lauren Will from LaurensLipGlossary.com
So happy you feel the same, Lauren! That being said, I’m about to check out your blog! xoxo
Those pictures are absolutely amazing! I love the sweatshirt!
http://www.mylittlenest.org
Thank you so much for stopping by, Ruth! Have a great rest of the week. :*
I love to support local shops! And I love that top!
Yay! We’re on the same page then! 😉 xoxo
Good customer service is sooo important … can’t stress that enough! Love supporting local businesses.
http://www.theclosetcrush.com
Thank you for saying that, Alina! xoxo
Love this edgy all black look! Personal connection is so important!
Amy Ann
Straight A Style
Thank you, Amy Ann! I SO agree with you! Have a great day! :*
I couldn’t agree more with you, it’s so important to support the local economy. By the way, you look fierce in all black! And that sweater is so chic and edgy too! Hope you’re having a great week so far!
xo, Jackie
stylemydreams.com
Aw Jackie, thank you so much for stopping by! Love seeing you here! And yes, nothing better than feeling the sense of support in your local community AND economy!
Love this outfit on you! Those pants look amazing and I love that top!
Great post and wonderful tips! Gorgeous photos and amazing top!
xx, Elise
http://www.sparkleandslippers.blogspot.com
So chic and beautiful! Amazing photos!
http://chicglamstyle.com
Great post and love your outfit! Such a cute top.
~Samantha
http://goldcoastgirlblog.com
There are a few local businesses I work with that I absolutely adore- and you’re right, you totally build personal connections with them; I consider them my pals! 🙂 Love this look, babe!
-Ashley
Le Stylo Rouge
I’ve always thought it was important to support small businesses, and I am so happy to see you posting about it! I think it is very valuable to contribute to the success of your community. Also, I love your outfit in these photos!
Thank you for linking up this week!
~xo Sheree
PoshClassyMom.com
I love supporting local businesses when I get the chance! Keeping the local economy strong is important and developing a personal connection with employees is beneficial to everyone involved!
Luci’s Morsels | fashion. food. frivolity.
Couldnt agree more. Rich enterprieses keeps getting richer, it’s time to spread the wealth to our local businesses. By the way, your top looks gorgeous dear.
Jessica | notjessfashion.com
This is such a great reminder and love supporting local entrepreneurs!
Kileen
cute & little
Nice and perfect looking outfit..