BUFFALO, N.Y. (WKBW) — We're just one week away from Christmas. Let's face it, it’s probably too late to order that last-minute gift online, but there’s plenty of time to do what WNY does best--shop local.
"It’s been amazing. We were very concerned about how things would go, but we’re very pleasantly surprised,” said Allison E. Kurek, a working artist at Buffalo Shopcraft, LLC on Elmwood Avenue.
Shopcraft offers gifts made by more than 90 local artists and they’re seeing a steady flow of customers checking them out this holiday season.
"I can’t stress how wonderful the community has been. The county really helped us with the 716 promotion and we can’t say thank you enough," said Kurek.
But it still comes with challenges.
There are times when it does get a little hectic. We have a limit of 9 customers who can come in at a time. They have been gracious and a lot have even said thank you for making them wait," said Kurek.
They’re also making an effort keep things clean for customers.
"We are making sure that we clean our counter or any surface that’s touched on a regular basis," said Kurek.
They're also staying open one hour later to give shoppers plenty of time.
Just five minutes away, Maasai Consignment Boutique is offering unique knick knacks and decorations with a local flair.
"The local businesses we have are done with their hearts, all of our local businesses put their hearts into it," said Michelle Matthews, Co-Owner.
The black-owned shop is also selling Christmas trees for $50 and handmade wreaths for $20.
They’re also working hard to maintain small crowds to keep customers safe.
"We do the best we can from our hearts. We really enjoy what we do. We appreciate the people who are consigners and the people who come and buy," said Matthews.
And they’re really hoping to see more customers come in this week to check our their selection.
"If they came by just to check us out honk the horn, to see the hard work we’ve put into it really just to make people happy. Take a look around, you might just find a treasure. You might just find a treasure," said Janaine Gates, Co-owner.
Business owners all around WNY doing whatever they can to get customers in their doors this week safely. If you're looking for more options, check out our We're Open tab.
