Why Supporting Local Businesses Is Personal for Me
If you know me, you know I’m a big believer in community. And one of the ways I live that out is by supporting local businesses. Sure, it’s nice to grab coffee at a familiar chain when I’m on the go, but there’s something special about walking into a local spot where the owner greets you by name, remembers your favorite drink, and truly cares about the people who come through their doors.
For me, supporting local businesses isn’t just something I talk about. It’s personal.
I Know What It’s Like to Build Something from Scratch
Before I became a Realtor, I ran my own small business. I know what it feels like to pour your heart into something, to stay up late working on ideas, and to keep pushing forward even when the road feels uncertain.
That experience gave me a deep respect for every entrepreneur who takes a risk to follow a dream. When I buy from a local shop or eat at a neighborhood restaurant, I see more than a business. I see a family working hard, a dream taking shape, and a community that thrives because of it.
Local Businesses Are the Heart of Our Community
In places like Cedar Park, Round Rock, and North Austin, local businesses give our area its character. They’re the coffee shops that host networking meetups, the bakeries that remember your birthday order, and the boutiques that donate gift baskets to local fundraisers.
When we shop local, we’re not just making a purchase. We’re investing in our neighbors. Those dollars stay right here, helping create jobs, fund schools, and keep our community vibrant.
It’s About Relationships, Not Transactions
Real estate has taught me something important. People remember how you make them feel. The same is true for local businesses. It’s the personal touches, the warm smile, the handwritten note, the genuine care, that keep people coming back.
That’s exactly how I approach my work as a Realtor. I want my clients to feel seen, supported, and valued, not just during the transaction but long after closing. Supporting local businesses reminds me to bring that same heart into everything I do.
The Ripple Effect Is Real
Every time we support a local business, we help someone else chase their dream. That ripple effect spreads. It encourages others to do the same, builds stronger connections, and reminds us that community is built one relationship at a time.
When I collaborate with local vendors, photographers, lenders, or even home stagers, I’m not just building my business. I’m helping build theirs, too. That kind of partnership creates something far bigger than any one person could do alone.
So the next time you’re deciding where to grab lunch or pick up a gift, I hope you’ll think about the local shop owners right here in our neighborhoods. They’re the ones showing up for our community every day, and they deserve our support.
Supporting local is more than a good habit. It’s a way to build a stronger, more connected North Austin. And for me, it’s one of the most meaningful ways to give back to the place I’m proud to call home.