MILWAUKEE — When you shop this holiday season think of shopping local.
From Bronzeville to Washington Heights, Milwaukee has a ton of small businesses you can support.
At Swoon on 55th and Vliet, owner Kira Wendel is getting ready for their busiest weekend of the year.
From clothing to candles to honey items from dozens of local artists fill the store. Some of which stopped by to make sure they had enough inventory.
Wendel says spending money at local businesses goes beyond the owner's pockets.
"It keeps money in your community which helps your community thrive. We have 124 consignment artists so you're helping those 124 people and their children and families as well," said Wendel.
Retail experts say for every dollar spent at a small business about 67 cents stays in the local community.
It's been a year since Lelo Allen and her partners opened the Bronzeville Collective.
The storefront features 25 local artists. Allen calls it an "Amazon free space."
"We specifically focus on creatives of color so black, brown, and queer folks and unique handmade gifts," said Allen.
You can find jewelry, art, and custom made items at the collective.
"I think what's important about that is the personal touch and then also knowing where your dollars are going," said Allen.
So as you pull out your wallet, be sure to share the wealth with local businesses.
