The days are getting warmer, which means summer is almost here. As we continue to stay local and avoid unnecessary travel, it’s important to remember many of our favourite businesses have taken a massive financial hit over the past year-and-a-half. As the longer days entice more of us to explore our city – from parks and museums to restaurants – here are six ideas on how to be strategic with your spending to help support Prince George businesses.
#SupportPG passport program
This summer, Support PG and 50+ local businesses have teamed up to create a special stay local passport program. As the days get warmer and longer, locals can show their support by purchasing goods and collecting stickers from participating businesses across the city. Once you’ve collected some stamps, your filled-in passport can then be entered in to win prizes all summer long. There will three rounds to the contest and three great staycation packages to be won!
Of course, I want to win prizes! #SupportPG
View this post on Instagram
Every dollar adds up
Birthdays, anniversaries, and holiday celebrations sure have changed over the last year-and-a-half, but the variety of ways we show appreciation and love for each other hasn’t. If you’re wanting to surprise a lucky someone with a gift, consider purchasing a present from one of the many local shops. From winemaking, artisan goods, Farmers’ Market products, locally brewed beers, and speciality home goods stores – there’s something out there for every interest and budget. Each dollar spent at a local shop gets recirculated into the local economy and supports an entrepreneur.
Not sure where to shop? Check out our previous shopping holiday guide.
Try virtual
Tons of businesses and activities have moved into the online world, including tutors, yoga instructors, financial planners, and community events. If you haven’t checked in with your favourite non-profits and businesses lately consider popping over to their website or social media to see if they’ve got anything planned in the coming months. Many cool new products, like virtual fitness classes, adult lectures, concerts and fun family-friendly events, are in the works.
Staycations
Now might be the perfect time to explore your city like a tourist. With small crowds and open spaces, Prince George is a safe relaxing destination to experience. If you’ve fallen into the “I’ll do it someday because I live here” trap, now might be the perfect time to check out a new spot. Lots of locals haven’t walked the stunning Ancient Forest before, perused the extensive exhibits at the Railway and Forestry Museum, or experienced the interactive tours at Huble Homestead.
Adventures are waiting. Browse the Tourism PG directory for inspiration.
Share the love
Word of mouth is one of the most powerful ways you can support a business, but it doesn’t just have to be within your core bubble. Next time you’re waiting on your coffee order or for the kids to finish school, jump onto social media for a few minutes and share, comment, and like some of your favourite local business’s content. You can even take it a step further and leave reviews on Yelp, TripAdvisor or Google. Your review could encourage others to test, try, and maybe even fall in love with a new local business. Plus, it doesn’t cost you a cent.
Outdoor dining
Our local restaurants, cafes, and bars have been hit exceptionally hard this past year. As they adjust to the new outdoor dining mandate, they are still looking to serve up the same scrumptious bites in a safe space. Next time you’re considering some fine dining or takeout, check out our ultimate patio guide for choices. So many local eateries now have beautifully developed patio spaces or rooftop experiences.
Let my stomach decide what I want.
