A year nearly gone; a year about to start. Whilst this could be said every December, we know this year has been different. Manly traders have been tested like never before with the crushing fear of COVID-19 in March, lock downs, home quarantines and school closures, and the knowledge that going forward life would be different.
With resilience, creativity and some heartache, all of the Manly Village Precinct Traders have survived the challenges (unlike many other business precincts throughout Brisbane). Key to this has been the loyalty of customers who have continued to shop local to help local survive.
The Festive Season provides another opportunity to support local traders, while rewarding ourselves with easy festive shopping options.
Many traders are offering extended trading hours to make it easier for customers to complete their Christmas gift shopping. Laura Norris from The Mad Hatters Bookshop says that staying open to 6pm Thursday and Friday nights through December allows her customers to enjoy a visit to Manly as the setting sun lights up the harbour.
“Balmy evenings which combine a little shopping followed by a cool drink or social dinner captures the essence of a Queensland Christmas experience.”
Manly retailers pride themselves on offering something a little different, bespoke, handmade or unusual. Gift vouchers are also offered by many traders to help with “hard to buy for” gift recipients or a those who prefer to give experiences.
With time to reflect over the holiday period, no doubt many will also consider New Year travel, fitness and self-care. Looking forward to 2021, local traders such as Travel Associates, 4Shore Fitness and Endota Spa will be ready to help accomplish New Year’s resolutions.
Photo: Juliann Star of EBB+FLOW Boutique Studio showcases her range of Christmas decorations
Article featured in the December 2020 issue of Community Leader newspaper.
