HAPPY HOLIDAYS

 

Our team at Carolina Muse Literary & Arts Magazine wishes all of our lovely supporters happy holidays❄️ I don't know about y'all, but for me, the holiday season is truly what makes winter bearable (in addition to Taylor Swift's new album, of course). I can finally ignore my dry hands and frozen toes for a moment when I feel that warm feeling you get from celebrating the people and traditions you love.

 

This month's newsletter is all about the holiday season: The benefits of shopping local, some exciting local Carolina events (both virtual and socially distant), and of course, some arts inspiration from our team.

 

We have lots of new subscribers and creators joining the party, so thanks for being here and supporting us! (If you're wondering how you arrived here, scroll to the bottom for more info about Carolina Muse's Monthly Musings) 

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#ShopSmall2020

 

Just about every winter holiday involves gift giving. The warm fuzzy feeling I was talking about? That's how I feel when I find the perfect gift for my dog (I'm a mother. No drama). In all seriousness, the average American is projected to spend $998 this holiday season. Every year, but especially this year, we believe that this $1,000 average should be put toward supporting small businesses & local artists.

May I present: the benefits of shopping small.

 

One. Let's talk the arts. 20% of independent bookstores across the country are in danger of closing. What's even more staggering? 63% of artists/creatives have become unemployed.  Supporting the arts financially will help them stay alive.

 

Two. Did you know that purchasing from these locally-owned businesses generates three times as much economic benefit for your community than purchasing from a chain store does?

 

Three. Shopping for handmade pieces either in person or online on Etsy is not only good for the small businesses you're purchasing from, but it's also good for the environment. Etsy offsets 100% of its carbon emissions from shipping🌎

 

Four. Local businesses bring life, creativity, and innovation to your community. Purchasing your gifts from small businesses shows that you support their creators' passions. 

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There are endless reasons to shop local this year. If you're as convinced as I am, head to our Instagram or Facebook to browse some of our team's favorite Carolina small businesses. 

   

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ARTS EVENTS

 

🌸 North Carolina

• Dec. 12, 11am-5pm: Home for the Holidays Pop-Up Shop

  • Shop local, black-owned businesses at this pop-up shop in Asheville. Located at GRIND Coffee Bar and Co-Working Space, music and food will be provided.

• Dec. 18, 4pm-6pm: Live Holiday Music at The Honeysuckle Tea House

  • Violinist David Scott Binanay will be performing holiday tunes at The Honeysuckle Tea House in Chapel Hill, NC.

• Now-February: Lights at the White Water Center

  • This free lights trail is half a mile long and features light sculptures inspired by nature elements like honeycombs, streams, vines, crystals, and roots. Lights are designed by Charlotte artist Meredith Connelly. 

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🏵️ South Carolina

• Dec. 12, 9am-1pm: TD Saturday Market: Holiday Edition

  • Find seasonal produce, specialty items, festive handmade crafts, holiday baskets, and more at this market in downtown Greenville, SC.

• Dec. 12, 12pm-4pm: For the Love of Art Festival

  • Tradesman Brewing Co. in Charleston hosts an afternoon of artwork, beer, and food. This event is outdoors and socially distant.

• Open now: The Nickelodeon Theatre Holiday Movies

  • "The Nick," the only arthouse cinema in Columbia, SC, has reopened and will be screening holiday movies. The theater will be at 25% capacity, and other COVID protocols will be followed.

   

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CREATIVE ARTS INSPIRATION

FROM OUR TEAM