It’s a no brain-er to just drive to Starbucks, Second Cup or Tim Horton’s to grab your morning cup of java on the way to work. It’s quick, easy and cheap, right? I used to think supporting local was down-right silly and expensive, but lately I’ve been reflecting on some experiences I’ve had with the bigger chain stores compared to smaller local businesses. I assure you that the following are all true stories.
I’ll start by sharing a few experiences I’ve had with Uncle Sam, The Big Guy, aka Big Franchise Businesses. I was once pushed through a drive through without paying with fully because I was taking too long to find the right change. The girl at the window promptly told me not to bother because she was trying to improve her time. It was good for me I suppose. I didn’t have to pay the full amount, but her service and attitude left something to be desired. I also once asked for my sandwich to be made a whole wheat bun because I wanted to make a healthier choice. I was informed by the cashier that I could not have a whole wheat bun because it was not included in the price, and besides “it wouldn’t fit on that bun”. I offered to pay the difference but was still declined my request so I asked to speak to the manager. The cashier left the counter, spoke to another staff member behind the counter, came back and informed me that I could not have that sandwich on that bun. What was most frustrating is that I had the same sandwich made for me just a few days prior without a problem. I was embarrassed because I was holding up the line, only trying to make a healthier choice for my body. The experience left me feeling like I didn’t matter as a customer. I don’t know about you but, that’s not the service I like to have when forking over my hard earned cash to a business.
Luckily another photographer introduced me to The Pour House, a local coffee shop in Vegreville. It’s conveniently located right beside Cole’s Western Wear! A lot of people miss it because there are usually vehicles parked in front, but let me tell you it’s a gem of a place!
When I started to frequent this business, I noticed that sometimes the prices were higher but there was a stark contrast in the quality of product and service I received. Sometimes the old adage “You get what you pay for!” rings true. Let’s face it, the staff at big stores are often overworked, underpaid, and certainly not invested in the company’s advancement. My experience has been that the staff are friendlier and happier. They take pride in their work because they are directly working for the owner, with whom they have a personal relationship. The service is great, and I don’t feel that they are trying to push me through the line as fast as possible so they can increase their productivity! They are invested in serving me as a valuable customer. They actually ask me what type of bun I want and if I want my latte non-fat! Imagine that? Another pro to supporting local is that a larger portion of their revenue is reinvested into the local economy, which strengthens the community as a whole. They are also more likely to give back to the community in other ways, because they LIVE in it! As a business owner myself, I realize more than ever how important it is to support local! I am mindful of the places I shop so that I can give back to my community as much as possible. Plus, you can go home feeling good about supporting local! It’s a win-win for everyone!
This brings me to part of the reason why I am writing this post. Back in February, (I know,I know… for shame, I am so incredibly slow at blogging) I was approached to take some photos of the Valentine’s Day Dinner set up at The Pour House. They also mentioned that they wanted to get into making Date Night a regular thing at their shop! I have to admit that I was so excited about the idea since my husband has taken me to the other restaurants in town more times than I can shake a stick at. While they are all good restaurants, let’s be honest, they can get a little boring and predictable! Next time you and your significant other want something a romantic dinner date you don’t have to drive to the city! This means that the exhausting hour long drive, plus waiting in long lines and then driving another hour home from Edmonton can be a thing of the past! 
I wonder what other local gems are out there that are just waiting to be discovered? Feel free to comment below with more suggestions so we can all “give a crap” about supporting local!
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