newsmaker: Shop Small, Give Big

Need the perfect gift idea? “The Localist Card makes a great gift for a fellow Charlestonian, especially someone who loves discovering new restaurants, shops, and experiences, and lasts well beyond the holiday season,” says Maud Bentley, director of creative and marketing at Lowcountry Local First (LLF).

 Charleston’s character is built on small businesses. From family-owned boutiques and bookstores to booths run by local farmers and artisans in Marion Square every Saturday morning, you’re never far from a familiar face—and a product you won’t find anywhere else.

 But competing with big-box discounts and one-click convenience isn’t always easy, especially when holiday shopping kicks into high gear. That’s why for nearly two decades, LLF has championed Charleston’s independent businesses, giving their neighbors a stronger voice, more resources, and a better shot at thriving year after year.

 “Lowcountry Local First was founded in 2007 by Jamee Haley, Matt Bauer, and Andy Gowder, alongside 40 pioneering businesses united by the belief that locally owned, independent companies are vital to the Lowcountry's character, resilience, and economic well-being,” explains Bentley.

Rooted in a shared passion to help entrepreneurs thrive in the Holy City, the nonprofit has since grown to represent nearly 700 certified local Charleston businesses across every sector, from retail and entertainment to service and food and beverage. Here’s a closer look at how LLF supports small businesses year-round—and how you can, too.

Supporting Businesses, Every Step of the Way

Lowcountry Local First champions local businesses in three primary ways, according to Bentley: advocating for policies that help them thrive, connecting business owners with the tools and resources they need to grow, and educating consumers about the importance of choosing local.

These offerings come in a variety of forms, including networking events, educational workshops, advocacy updates, and access to member-only resources. As the Tri-County’s Kiva Hub, LLF also partners with the global micro-lending nonprofit Kiva to expand financial inclusion and funding for local small businesses, such as access to 0% interest loans.

And with membership comes strength in numbers. “One independent business may struggle to get the attention of decision-makers, but hundreds of businesses speaking together can meaningfully influence policies that affect local ownership and entrepreneurship,” Bentley says.

For entrepreneurs like Chinenyem Nwadiugwu, owner of She Biology, a locally sourced organic CBD-infused skin-care line, this network is just as valuable as any other resource LLF offers.

“As a business founder, there are constantly questions,” Nwadiugwu says. “Where should I host an event? Where should I look for commercial space? Which trade shows should I attend? Lowcountry Local First connects entrepreneurs to people, information, and opportunities that can help answer those questions. You don’t feel like you’re building your business alone.”

Exclusive Savings and Experiences for Shoppers

When a small business becomes locally certified with LLF, they also become a part of a discount program designed specifically for local shoppers. By purchasing either a physical or digital Localist Card for $25, consumers unlock perks at dozens of restaurants, retailers, and service providers across the Lowcountry.

“A Localist Card is a simple way to shop small, save money, and discover new local favorites,” Bentley says. Many businesses also offer Localist-exclusive in-store events aimed at boosting community and giving local shoppers more intentional ways to explore local brands.

The 2027 Localist Card goes on presale October 1, with perks valid January 1 through December 31, 2027. You can also pick up your new Localist Card at the Buy Local Block Party 2026 on Saturday, December 19 at Holy City Brewing in North Charleston.

This free event will feature a curated lineup of talented makers, artists, and craftspeople offering unique gifts for everyone on your holiday shopping list. “Its purpose is to make supporting local businesses festive, social, and easy, while reminding shoppers that their holiday purchases can have a real impact on their neighbors and the regional economy,” Bentley says.

Cardholders who attend the Buy Local Block Party this year will enjoy exclusive savings with participating vendors and a discount on their Holy City Brewing tab. “It is a great opportunity to put the card to use immediately while getting a head start on holiday shopping,” Bentley says.

Where to Shop for Gifts That Keep on Giving All Year

When you support a local business, the impact goes beyond a single purchase. You’re helping create local jobs, opportunities for entrepreneurs, and spurring economic growth in our community. Even one small choice can make a difference.

“Supporting local does not have to mean changing every purchasing habit overnight,” Bentley says. “Start with one decision at a time: choose a local restaurant for lunch, purchase a gift from an independent retailer, hire a local service provider, or ask your workplace to source locally.”

Ready to start shopping small? We caught up with three LLF business owners ahead of the holiday season to get the inside scoop on the perks you can expect and the impact you’ll make.

Black Octopus Mercantile

This Park Circle-based surf brand sells apparel, stickers, drinkware, and more featuring original designs by owner and artist Missy Johnson. “When you shop local, you’re helping a neighbor who has a dream, and your purchase continues that dream,” Johnson says.

Localist Card Perks: 20 percent off purchases of $50 or more throughout the holidays—not to mention local charm. “At Black Octopus, you’re greeted by our shop dog Abel when you walk in,” Johnson says. “Come on, you don’t get that at Old Navy, right?”

Local Love CHS

“The biggest perk of partnering with LLF has been the connections we've made with other local businesses,” says Medea Duffy, owner of this one-stop shop for locally made candles, pottery, leather goods, and jewelry on James Island. “Equally important is the connection with LLF itself. They are constantly thinking of ways to involve and highlight us as part of their events.”

Localist Card Perks: $10 off purchases of $100 or more. This holiday season, look for Wednesday-evening workshops (each comes with a 10 percent coupon) and gift-box building. "Grab a gorgeous shippable box and fill it with all local items for yourself or as a gift,” Duffy says.

2 Boroughs Retailer Collective

Jenny Ferrara’s collective highlights independent shops in the Cannonborough-Elliotborough neighborhood, including her bookstore bar, Philosophers & Fools. “Lowcountry Local First is a wonderful and necessary advocate for small independent businesses like ours,” she says.

Localist Card Perks: 10 percent off when you spend $20. Look for Philosophers & Fools at the Buy Local Block Party, plus in-store-only deals November 27–29.

Visit the LLF website to find a full list of participating Localist Card businesses and current offers at lowcountrylocalfirst.org/localist-card.