Plaid Friday

Plaid Friday began as a grassroots movement, started almost 15 years in Oakland, CA, as a way to bring back the time when shopping for friends and family was a pleasurable, leisurely activity. Now it’s celebrated throughout the nation as part of the Shop Indie Local campaign, sponsored by the American Independent Business Alliance (AMIBA).

The “Plaid” in Plaid Friday refers to the idea of weaving the individual threads of small businesses together to create a strong fabric that celebrates the diversity and creativity of independent businesses. The campaign asked people to wear plaid to show their support for small businesses that day. People enjoyed dressing up and feeling like they were really participating in something good.

Members of the White Mountain Independents will be promoting the day in their own unique ways, with participating stores offering matte-laminated reusable totes made from recycled plastic bottles when a minimum purchase amount is reached.

Made by WG Ellerkamp in Peterborough, NH, the large totes are in earth colors with a “Think Local, Buy Local” message. Research shows that consumers respond to and support buying local, and who doesn’t love a nice-quality tote! They will be available as long as supplies last.

Participating stores:

• Bavarian Chocolate Haus
• The Christmas Loft
• Designed Gardens Flower Studio
• Four Your Paws Only
• It’s My Girlfriend’s Boutique Consignment
• Jewelry by Tim & Friends
• League of NH Craftsmen
• The Local Grocer
• North Country Fair Jewelers
• The Penguin Gallery
• Ragged Mountain Equipment
• RavenWood Curio Shoppe
• The Rugged Mill
• Soyfire Candle Bath & Body
• Spruce Hurricane
• Valley Artisans & Vintage Market
• Veno’s Specialty Foods & Meats
• White Birch Books