Shopping at independent retailers helps strengthen our local economy, expands employment, fosters community, and provides a more relaxed, fun, and rewarding shopping experience - which is why this holiday season, we're pledging to shop local and asking others to take the Local First Milwaukee Shop Local Pledge!Many of us spend a large portion of our annual shopping budget between November 1 and December 31 in preparation for the holidays. But did you know that shopping at local businesses can generate 2-3 times as much economic activity in our city than if we had spent that money at a national chain? That means more jobs, better quality, and a vibrant and sustainable community!Join us this season in supporting local - take the Shift Your Shopping pledge through Local First Milwaukee! By shifting just an additional 10% of our year-around shopping and dining to local businesses, we could create $311 million in new economic activity in our local economy every year.Colectivo is proud to be a founding member of Local First Milwaukee and an independently owned local business since 1993.Check out these fantastic opportunities to support local businesses and artisans this holiday season: Art Vs. Craft - Saturday, November 30 from 10AM-6PM Buy Local Gift Fair - Sunday, December 8 from 12-4PM Hover Craft 2013 - Sunday, December 8th from 12-6PM Local First Milwaukee's Directory of Member Businesses