Support Local Businesses This Holiday Season

District Perspectives – State Representative, District 65B

As the crisp autumn air settles over Minnesota and the leaves continue to change, it’s a reminder that the holiday season is upon us. As you begin to prepare your gift shopping list, take some time to discover local businesses in our community and support them while searching for the perfect gifts for your loved ones. District 65B in St. Paul is home to a vibrant community of local businesses, each offering unique products and services that make our neighborhood special. 

There are over 100 businesses in District 65B, serving a diverse range of needs and interests. Many of these businesses are owned and operated by people of color, including Hmong, Somali, Latino and African American entrepreneurs. These businesses offer a variety of goods and services, ranging from groceries and restaurants to clothing, beauty supplies, and community services, and from cozy cafes and boutiques to art galleries and specialty shops, ensuring that there is something to offer everyone in our local community. 

From purchasing memorabilia posters, collectable retro toys, baseball cards and throwback concert t-shirts at 7th Street’s legendary Maharaja’s Gifts; Little Brazil’s imported delicious treats and Brazilian coffee; A nice steak and lobster dinner date at Mancini’s, to crossing the river to West Side’s El Burrito Mercado for the Silva tamales recipe and traditional Mexican holiday treats; we are in the season reminding us in St. Paul that we share joy with the cheers of support surrounding our Capitol city heritage to bring a little warmth to every home. 

Small businesses are the heart and soul of our communities. They are mothers, grandparents and community keepers who selflessly took a chance on themselves and were able to provide jobs, contribute to the local economy and offer unique products and services that can’t be found at big-box stores. We can bolster our state’s economy when we shop local, as we’re investing in our neighbors, fostering a sense of community and helping to preserve the character and diversity of our state. 

Supporting local businesses during the holiday season is crucial. For many businesses, the increased foot traffic and sales can significantly impact their ability to sustain operations throughout the year. Minnesota has a long tradition of supporting its neighbors and embracing the philosophy of “we all do better, when we all do better.” This holiday season let’s spread love and joy by supporting those who are working hard to build a better future for our communities in St. Paul and across the state. By choosing to shop local, it’s more than a purchase; you’re supporting your neighbors, contributing to the local economy, and helping to preserve the character of our community.