November already? Indeed it is, and that means it’s time to make your list and check it twice.

This year, think small — because where you shop this holiday season is as important as what you buy.

“There’s something great about knowing who made a product and being able to share that story,” said Cary Magazine’s online community manager, Mor Aframian. “Gift giving should be purposeful, so the recipient has a connection to the gift. A gift should say ‘I thought of you,’ and something unique or limited edition makes it even more special.”

Aframian, who holds a master’s degree in social entrepreneurship and economic development, says you’ll find that special gift when you shop with locally-owned small businesses, and buy locally-produced goods.

FACT: For every $100 spent at a locally-owned business, $68 stays in the local economy, compared to $43 if spent at a national chain; shoplocalraleigh.org

This season, Aframian recommends a blended approach of online research and in-person shopping to discover new local businesses and rediscover old favorites.

“Watch for upcoming holiday markets, and check the websites of the artists or vendors featured at them,” she said. “Get familiar with their products and price ranges to guide your shopping process, and follow them on Facebook to learn about their participation in holiday pop-up shops or to get ‘this-just-in’ product information.

“Check local downtown and chamber directories online. Then, shop in person!”

While by no means an exhaustive list, our Starting Points below will give your gift-giving a push in the local direction. And as always, our We Love section features local shops.

Happy shopping!

Starting Points

Cary: heartofcary.org; caryartloop.org; facebook.com/downtowncaryfoodandflea; facebook.com/SouthernCharmGiftBoutique; waverlycary.com

Apex: apexdowntown.com

Fuquay-Varina: fuquay-varinadowntown.com

Holly Springs: hollyspringsartscouncil.org

Regional: thehandmademarket.com; etsy.com/local

Editors’ note: Find the full shopping tips article here.