We hear the phrase “Shop Local” often this time of year. But what does it mean?

“Shopping local” means that your local community of shops and businesses can provide quality sources for gift giving this holiday season. You really can get all your shopping and gift-giving accomplished with confidence and flair in Edmonds.

To get started, the Edmonds Holiday Market has returned this year, with Saturday offerings in the parking lot at City Hall. Running from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. each Saturday until Dec. 17, the market offers a plethora of selections for the discerning shopper. Maybe you should start with greenery of swags and wreaths to decorate your home and get the family “in the mood” for the holidays. As you meander through the stalls of vendors, stop and sample cheese and meats; gift baskets are available to send to out-of-state friends. Of course, there are a variety of economical choices for youngsters who will be shopping for parents and teachers. For the sports fans on your list, browse a wide assortment of caps, scarves and accessories brandishing Seahawks, Sounders and Mariners.

Strolling downtown, you can’t miss the decorative displays of our merchants. For the home chef, perhaps a stop at The Wooden Spoon on Main Street will give you inspiration? And for the proud home owner, a wealth of choices abound at Edmonds Interiors on Main, or Zinc just off Main on 3rd Avenue South. Still can’t decide on something special for the person on your list that has everything? How about a gift certificate from the Edmonds Bookshop on 5th Avenue South, where they can choose what they really want?

In fact, most all of our Edmonds businesses offer gift certificates in various denominations. The advantage here is that your recipient can select what they like, shop when it is convenient for them, and help our local economy.

So, you’re still looking…..? Okay, The Papery on Main Street offers a wide selection of fancy, personalized note paper, timely cards and calendars, and even unique nautical- themed gifts for the sailor on your list. Of course, Christmas to the younger ones means toys. And where better to go than Teri’s Toybox, which has been catering to the needs of kids of all ages for more than 30 years. From “A” for alphabet blocks to “Z” for zoo animals, Teri’s has it all. And, for the older children, be sure to see the range of digital games and elaborate doll collections.

For that special lady in your life — be it a mom, sister, aunt or grandma — Edmonds has a corner on the market in fashions. Rebekah’s Boutique, Rogue, Sound Styles or Nadias’ Evening on Main and Saetia on 5th Avenue South offer a fantastic array of choices in current designs and a range of sizes. Whether it is a scarf or jewelry, fancy sweater or party outfit, you’re sure to find something nice.

Okay, I’ve saved the best for last, unique and one-of-a-kind: A visit to Glazed and Amazed. Folks of any age like to get messy and paint designs on mugs, vases or spoon rests. It’s strange that when you finish, regardless of the skill level, somehow, when it comes out of the kiln, it’s absolutely beautiful and looks very professional.

Remember, too, that Small Business Saturday will be celebrated in Edmonds on Saturday, Nov. 26. Residents are invited to shop local and enjoy the holiday market, then stay for the annual tree-lighting ceremony sponsored by the Edmonds Chamber of Commerce that afternoon/early evening.

The Nov. 26 schedule is:
– 3:30 p.m. Refreshments at Centennial Plaza
– 4 p.m. Program begins with Santa to follow
– 5:30 to 7 p.m. Photographs with Santa at Canarino Gelato in Old Milltown

And of course we can’t possibly list all the wonderful Edmonds businesses — not only downtown but in all our shopping districts. If you want more shopping ideas, visit the Edmonds Chamber of Commerce business directory.

— By Beth Bond