Simplified: More than a dozen local retailers are banding together to encourage folks to check out local businesses in the month of March after a particularly slow start to the year.

Why it matters

  • The "March Madness Shop Hop" includes 14 local businesses, and anyone who visits each location in the month of March will be entered to win a grand prize with contributions from each participating retailer.
  • The event was started by Christi Petersen, owner of Seasoned Style. Petersen said she's seen not only fewer sales but also fewer customers coming through her doors. She's hoping the Shop Hop will bring more foot traffic for her and fellow business owners.
  • The hope is the month-long Shop Hop will not only create a fun experience for shoppers, but also give them a chance to learn more about what options are available to them in local shops rather than big box or online retailers.
"We've become such an online society," Petersen said. "We forget that interaction – that sense of community, supporting fellow people in your community with their businesses – makes and impact that you don't realize."

How does the "shop hop" work?

Shoppers can pick up a Shop Hop card at any participating business and get it stamped simply by visiting each of the 14 retailers on the card. Then, return the fully stamped card to any retailer and be entered to win.

  • Purchases aren't required to get a stamp, but shoppers are encouraged to, well, shop.
"Every tiny little bit helps," said Leslie Dolby, owner of DART Boutique. "A $6 magnet, a $3 card – it doesn't matter what it is. Everything is helpful, and it makes a big difference."

And even just knowing what's available can spur shoppers to opt for local options over big box alternatives. Stacy Wengler, owner of Knotty Gnome in Hartford, said she encourages folks to look for consumables they can buy locally, whether it's soap, honey, jam, etc.

These businesses are participating:

  • Seasoned Style
  • Pasque Boutique
  • Daylily Coffee
  • Farmhouse Market
  • Knotty Gnome
  • Love Marlow
  • Country 'N More
  • DART Boutique
  • The Maker's Circle
  • AMC Collective
  • Baking Up a Storm
  • Sugar Palace by Emily
  • Prime IV Hydration & Wellness
  • Nekter Juice Bar.