The Good Ol' Days...

Everyone likes to talk about the good ol' days when you used to walk to the corner store and pick up a Coke for a nickel and you knew the shop owner and most everyone you met on the way there.  Well, gone are the days of Coke for a nickel but you can still hold on to a little piece of Americana by getting to know your local shop owner.  Local businesses provide a certain level of personal service that is almost unattainable at a big chain store.  That personal service creates a bond between you and the owner, creating a feeling of trust and friendship.  Buying from someone you know and trust always feels better than buying from a total stranger whom you know nothing about. 

These days it is more important than ever to support local businesses.  They are an integral part of the fabric of your community.  Times are tight for most people so make sure the dollars you do spend are going to a place you want to support.  That's where the 3/50 Project comes in.  Their philosophy is simple, choose 3 businesses that you would really hate to lose and spend just $50 per month supporting those businesses.  According to the 3/50 Project, if half of the employed population would spend that amount it would generate $42.6 billion in revenue!  That would have a tremendous impact on the local economy.  Another interesting fact from 3/50, for every $100 spent in independently owned stores, $68 is returned to the local economy, if you spend in a national chain only $43 remains in your locality.  If you spend on line...nothing stays at home. 

Next time you are looking for a special gift or just an everyday purchase think of your local retailer.  They carry unique items you can't get just anywhere and you may just make a friend.

Visit the3/50Project for more information.

Don't forget about Mama!

What would we do without Mom?  She is always there when we need her, and asks little in return.  Next weekend is Mother's Day, the one day of the year that we pencil Mom in our schedule and show her how much we appreciate her.  Sometimes it's Sunday Brunch, sometimes it's flowers, sometimes it's just a phone call so she knows we are thinking about her.  This year let's go a step further.  Let's spend time shopping for a gift that won't wilt. 

Letting mom know that you didn't just stop by the local grocery store on the way to her house and pick up the last remaining hanging basket will show her that she's no ordinary mom.  Put a little thought into what you get her, because she deserves it. 

We have compiled a list of gifts that mom is sure to appreciate.

Does your Mama love music?

Here's a list of items that would be good for a mom who knows how to play or wishes she did.

1. A new instrument. If your mom is extra special why not buy her that new guitar, mandolin, banjo, bass, dobro,autoharp, dulcimer or fiddle she's been wanting?

2. Does mom need a new strap for her string instrument?  A nice new soft leather strap or one with a feminine print or color would be a great gift for mom.

3. A new pick would also bring a smile to mom's face.  A Papa's brand Coral pick would be just the thing to show her how much she means to you.

4. If you just can't decide just go with a Gift Card.  All women love to shop especially when they are spending someone else's money!


If your Mother isn't a musician here is a list of other gifts she will enjoy.

1. A book by a local author.  This could be a true story, a mystery or just something to get lost in sitting on the porch on a sunny evening.

2. A CD to listen to, everyone appreciates a good tune.  Just the thing to play in the car while she is running errands and making sure all of  life's little necessities are taken care of.

3. A handmade basket to fill with little luxuries.  Handmade baskets are high quality and beautiful for mom to fill with whatever she likes.

4. Locally made jewelry would also make mom's day.  What lady wouldn't love a new necklace or a special pair of earrings. 

All of these things and more are available at Capo's Music Store.  We would love to help you make Mom's day extra special. 

Be sure mom's gift is unique and out of the ordinary.  The best way to do this is by shopping local.  Local stores have handmade and specialty items that big box stores don't have.  Show mom that you think she's one of a kind and help support your local economy.