You may notice Cuba is making the seasonal transition into winter and the holiday season. Viva Cuba volunteers have been hard at work putting up decorations at the pocket park at the corner of Hwy 19 and Route 66. The goal is to keep our town beautiful every season.

As we continue to trim trees, remove branches, and improve our streets, we feel pride in our town and its people. As the holiday season approaches in all its uncertainty, one thing is for sure, the resilience of a small town. In fact, we need each other to get through these difficult times.

shop smallFor starters, shop small this holiday season. Instead of spending money on online retailers or big box stores, why not keep those dollars here in Cuba. On November 28th, the national Shop Small campaign encourages people to patronize businesses and retailers in their own community. This simple gesture of shopping local helps sustain small businesses and boosts the local economy.

If you don’t want to shop in person, reach out to businesses for curb side delivery, special order requests, and contactless options. When you do go to area shops and restaurants, wear a mask and social distance for the safety of everyone.

Here are local gift categories to consider for Shop Small Saturday in Cuba.

FOOD

There is always someone on your gift list that appreciates a good meal with friends and family. While many of us are not dining out, gift certificates to local restaurants makes a thoughtful and sensible gift. Pair it with a signature sauce, wine, or T-shirt from the establishment and you’ve got the perfect gift for any family member.

Check out local restaurants for holiday offerings, gift ideas, and tasty presentations.

ART

Cuba is well known for its public art, but wait till you see what other creations this town has to offer. Think of art as a gift that will cherished and revered for years to come whether it hangs on a wall or holds your beverage. Keep in mind, art comes in many forms and inspires the people it encounters.

  • Pottery 

For beautiful one-of-a-kind pottery, Julie Brand Pottery Studio is a great place to shop small. Brand says, “I paint nature’s details using a flower, a leaf, or even an urban scene under a microscope. I magnify life’s reflection in my art. “

As a local artist, her work captures the essence of the nature at its purest form. Her inspiration comes from her urban experience, as well as her rural surroundings in Missouri in which her work reflects on our connections to each other. Come by Saturday from 10:00 – 4:00 or call for an appointment.

  • Specialties

If you have an aspiring artist on your gift list, Spirals Gift Gallery and Studio  offers canvas Paint Parties for small groups.  Rather do a project at home? Ask about their Take-Home Door Hanger Kits. While you’re there, pick up items for everyone on the gift list with things like  Naturally Bright , specialty handcrafted soaps by Amy Bright or unique home decor by Elizabeth Turnbough.

BEAUTY

We all need a pick-me-up now and then.  For instance, a gift certificate for a new haircut or manicure will chase away the wintertime blues. Of course, there will be plenty of special occasions next year and reasons to get gorgeous. Also, salons are great sources for stocking stuffer ideas. Reach out to your favorite salon for more information.

 

CUBA MO MURAL CITY  ITEMS

CubaMoMural Note CardsStart at the Cuba Visitors Center! There are plenty of Cuba MO Mural City t-shirts and sweatshirts for the whole family. While you’re there, check out the Viva Cuba pewter commemorative holiday ornaments, Route 66 embroidered patches, and our NEW  ARRIVAL – Cuba MO Mural Note Cards.  Viva Cuba Chairperson, Jill Barnett adds, “Proceeds from these items continue to benefit Viva Cuba’s many beatification projects. It’s like a gift within a gift!”

SUBSCRIPTIONS

If you know someone who loves news, a subscription to local news or a lifestyle magazine is a great idea.  After all, it not only embraces the shop small concept, but it gives back all year long.

  • Newspapers

Three Rivers Publishing offers localized news for Crawford County, Cuba, Bourbon and Leasburg, along with Steelville. Newspapers are delivered weekly and available online.

  • Magazines

Route Magazine shares stories from the mother road, Route 66. Filled with stunning photography and heartfelt stories, this magazine highlights the Route 66 vibe within its pages. Keep an eye out for stories about Cuba and surrounding areas. You’ll want a subscription for yourself too.

 

DONATIONS

This time of year charitable organizations need help. Ideally, the #shopsmall effort can be as easy as making a donation locally.  If you have someone on your gift list who has everything, make a donation to a charitable organization in their name. This year more than ever, find it in your heart to help someone in need. Find a list of local groups and foundations at Crawford County Foundation Fund. 

Remember, we need each other. Show support for our community and shop small this holiday season.