Some do their holiday shopping online or in big-box stores, but this weekend, area shoppers had another option.
The Holiday Craft and Gift Expo at the Bayfront Convention Center offered a one-stop shopping experience while helping keep holiday dollars in the local community.
More than 160 vendors filled the convention center with everything from holiday gifts to products that can be used year-round. Shoppers browsed table after table of handmade and one-of-a-kind items, searching for unique gifts and checking names off their Christmas lists.
Many attendees said supporting local businesses was a major reason for coming to the event.
"I actually work for a family business, and I'd rather support local business to keep everyone up and running," shopper Alyaa said.
For vendors, the event was an opportunity to connect directly with customers and highlight the care that goes into their products.
"They don't really take the time to worry about the quality of the ingredients or what's really going into the products," said Isa, owner of Flowerisa.
Organizers say bringing independent vendors together helps strengthen community connections while giving small businesses a platform to showcase ...