Embracing the heart of the holiday season in December, my enduring mantra, both for this month and beyond, is simple: SHOP LOCAL! As our shopping increases for Christmas, driven by our desire to find the perfect gifts for loved ones, employees and teammates, it’s all too easy to be lured by the convenience and potential cost savings offered by large online retailers. Yet, I want to highlight the importance of supporting our local community. This holiday season, let’s make a deliberate choice to support the locals and do our Christmas shopping at the small businesses right here in Lincoln.
To preserve Lincoln as a vibrant and thriving community, each of us has to shop local and support the small businesses of our community, especially during the holiday season – when our support can make a meaningful difference. Showing our support means wholeheartedly embracing the act of shopping locally and throwing our unwavering support behind the small businesses that form the lifeblood of our community. When we choose to buy from these local entrepreneurs, we are not merely making transactions; we are contributing to the livelihoods of our friends and neighbors. It’s a collective effort that fosters a sense of unity, resilience and sustainability that extends beyond Christmas.
In addition to promoting shopping locally for Christmas, Strictly Business wants to thank our amazing clients, readers, staff, family and friends for making 2023 a great one. The new year is almost here, making me reflect back on 2023 and all the laughs and joy it brought. Running a business has its tough moments, but what makes it all worth it are the amazing people who have either partnered with Strictly Business for advertising or have become an important part of my life in some other way. I feel truly grateful when I look around and see these incredible individuals who have made my journey so special. I especially want to thank my staff. You guys are a great team and have made me look good by making the magazine the best it can be. Keep up the good work!
As we enter 2024, I’m excited about all the new things coming my way – the good, the not-so-good, new chances and fresh challenges. I’m also looking forward to making new friends and connections, working with new clients and trying out new things. It’s going to be an interesting year, and I can’t wait to see what happens.
Even though the calendar year is changing, one thing will stay the same: our desire here at Strictly Business to paint you as the expert in your industry. We are all about telling stories and building trust for you, both in our print publication and online. When you advertise with us, you’re not just running an ad; you’re joining a team that cares about local businesses and their success. We are not just here to showcase your brand; we are invested in your growth and will do everything we can to help you grow.
So, as we celebrate Christmas and enter the new year, let’s do it together as a community. Gather your family and friends, your employees and coworkers, your pets, and let’s make this the best year-end yet! Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
– Paige Zutavern