Amazon’s “Prime Day” has arrived, but at Preservation Maryland, we’re advocating for shopping local and supporting the small businesses that make your community unique! While Prime Day may boast deals and one-day-shipping, it’s a great opportunity to instead support local businesses and economies after an incredibly challenging year for retailers due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Not sure where to shop locally this year? Staff at Preservation Maryland have compiled their favorite places to shop, eat, and play in their neighborhoods. From coffee roasters in Savannah to fabric shops in Baltimore, we’ve got you covered! So take a scroll through our ultimate guide to shopping small this Prime Day, and consider making a local purchase!
STAFF PICKS
HUNTING GROUND – 3649 Falls Rd, Baltimore, MD 21211
PATRICK MOONEY | DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATE
“One of my favorite places to shop for clothes and accessories right now is Hunting Ground in Hampden. Located on Falls Road a short walk away from The Avenue, this small business focuses on curating great vintage clothes alongside new pieces from small designers and sustainable sources. Its location in a repurposed church solidifies this stores unique and original atmosphere. Be sure to check this place out when you choose to shop local in Baltimore!”
Dancing Bear Toys and Gifts – 15 E Patrick St, Frederick, MD 21701
Nicholas Redding | President and ceo
“One of my favorite local shops is Dancing Bear Toys and Gifts located in the downtown Frederick historic district. The store carries unique toys for unplugged play – something that I find so important as a parent raising a child in a digital world. They carry the toys you can’t find anywhere else – especially online – and are a great reason to come and play in Frederick!”
Found Studio Shop | Red Canoe and Café | Domesticity – Hamilton/Lauraville
Jessica feldt | PRESERVATION INITIATIVES MANAGER
“One of my favorite things about living in the Hamilton/Lauraville area is the wealth of stores and restaurants on our doorstep. Found Studio Shop sells amazing things made, by-in-large, by local and regional makers. I always find great gifts (and treats for myself) each time I shop. Plus you can grab a delicious bite from the attached Red Canoe Café while you are there. I also love the store that ignited my sewing hobby, Domesticity. They have a wonderful selection of fabrics, engaging classes, studio space, and the staff is incredibly friendly and always willing to help answer questions.”
VISIT Found Studio Shop ONLINE
get directions to domesticity shop
GET DIRECTIONS to found studio shop & Red Canoe Café
Green Spring Station – 10751 Falls Rd, Lutherville-Timonium, MD 21093
Dana cohen | Director of communications
“My favorite spot to shop is Green Spring Station in Baltimore County. Green Spring Station is a hidden gem: a beautiful open-air center where you can eat and shop at the largest collection of locally owned boutiques in Baltimore, the majority of which are also woman-owned. The owners have also been operating the center through at least three generations.”
Not based in Maryland?
Our colleague Natalie Henshaw is leading our national program, The Campaign for Historic Trades, from Savannah, Georgia.
Cup to Cup Coffee Roasters – 148 Abercorn St, Savannah, GA 31401
Here’s what Natalie had to say about shopping local in Savannah:
Natalie Henshaw | Historic Trades Program Manager
“Everywhere I visit, I make a point to try a local coffee roaster. My favorite coffee still is in Savannah, Georgia, where I currently live: Cup to Cup Coffee Roasters. They make delicious coffee. I got my aunt in Denver, Colorado, hooked on it and send it for her birthday every year. I see the owner and the regular employees every Tuesday for a coffee tonic and blueberry scone. The barista will stash away a scone for me if they’re running low. I love being a regular and having that relationship–it’s something to look forward to every week, and every morning when I sip on a fresh brew.”