The snow is coming which means Christmas is right around the corner. If you're thinking about shopping, some things you can only find online, or in Des Moines, but if you look closely, and open doors, you'll see some things you can find right here in town. There’s not a lot of shopping options in Newton which is why it’s important we support the few we do.
The Saturday after Thanksgiving is Shop Small Saturday which encourages local residents to shop within their communities. Coupons will be given which can be redeemed from Dec. 9 to Dec. 24.
Here’s a list of 7 places to shop small downtown this season:
1. Beckman’s Gallery — If you want to give something memorable, framing a favorite photo or keepsake is a priceless, customized gift perfect for a spouse, parent or in-law. New or old vacation and family photos look 10 times better with a mat and frame. Beckman’s also has a nice selection of unique small kitchen accessories, quality hand creams and decorative art.
2. Farmers Wife — The selection of gifts is abundant. It’s the perfect place to find a house warming gift, or a thanks-for-hosting-a-holiday-party gift, or you’re-a-great-aunt gift. There are colorful, seasonal and decorative gifts and a supreme kitchen accessory selection as well.
3. Mattingly’s — Ah! The gift of a new book. Mattingly’s is a treasure in Newton, with a pleasant ambiance complete of Christmas lights, wood floors and classical music. While shopping, you’ll find new best sellers like “The Crossing” or “Rogue Lawyer.” You might event purchase something for yourself.
4. Mojo Cycling — Well, it’s winter, no doubt about that, so why not “gear” up for spring by stopping in our local bike shop? They’ve got a number of bikes for the most memorable Christmas gift on the list, or even just a new helmet or bike bottle. It also has a nice stash of Frisbee golf discs which will put a smile on the face or your nephew, son or maybe even your husband.
5. Choices Christian Book Store — Tis the season! The store has a wonderful selection of books, frames, art, journals and other gifts that will warm the heart of any Christian loved one within your family, church or friend group. I recently purchased “O Holy Night” Christmas cards.
6. Silverado Jewelry — I think its a blessing we have a jewelry store still open in Newton. The customer service is wonderful each time I visit and the penalization is done always how I would wish. From necklaces to guitar picks, the selection offers a nice affordable and stylish gift for anyone dear to your heart.
7. Capitol II — Newton doesn’t have a great deal of entertainment options, but we do have a movie theater, or two, we can support. Movie tickets are a great gift for families or couples to encourage a night out. The theater allows us the convenience of seeing latest box office hits without having to travel 30 miles. Also, on Black Friday, you can get a $30 Capitol II gift card for $25.
While you’re out and about, grab a coffee at Uncle Nancy's or lunch at PJ's Deli.
As you prepare for the holidays, don’t forget to look close to home when shopping. It’s important to the economy, and the uniqueness of the gifts is something appreciated.
Give back to the community this season — shop small.
Contact Kate Malott at 641-792-3121 ext. 6533 or kmalott@newtondailynews.com