LAKEWOOD, Ohio — It's the final push to grab those holiday gifts for loved ones. But, before you head out the door, you might want to consider this: According to the U.S. Small Business Administration, small businesses account for 44 percent of U.S. economic activity, and about 64% percent of the jobs created in America.
That sounds familiar to Maureen Koopman, owner of Lakewood pop-up shop, Home for the Holidays, on Madison Avenue.
"We are focused on what you might need ... we're focusing on customer service, really finding that perfect item that you didn't even know you wanted for your people," Koopman says.
It's her eighth year in business, growing from 15 to 47 vendors over the years.
"It's really fun to curate all of the different local makers and there's so much talent in this area, so it really is hard to fit them into a Lakewood storefront, but it's really fun each year to bring it all together," Koopman said.
One maker featured in Home for the Holidays is jewelry maker Shannon Hogarth. Her line, Crescent Rose Craft, is unique and hand-crafted.
"It's kind of trendy, but then, a little earthy. I use all natural crystals and I make sure I source good materials. So when you're working on a smaller scale like that, you really have the eye and the time to make sure everything is quality and made right," Hogarth said.
Shannon says stopping into places like Home for the Holidays helps her business thrive during a time when so many rush off to the big retailers.
"Well, you're helping someone else in the community and it's just better that way. The profits are going to a actual human and not a large business," Shannon said.
More than anything, Maureen says it's about the customer experience, which is second to none when it comes to holiday shopping.
"This year we have 47 different local artists and makers. So this, all of the impact in here, is going directly to local families. These people are creating these items in their studios, their homes, and then bringing them here for the community is holiday gifting," Koopman said.
For more information on Home for the Holidays, click HERE.
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