Recently I've realized that if I want the local businesses I love to continue to exist, I need to be willing to give them some of my money. I've definitely developed a better relationship with a few local business owners by purchasing there regularly.
A lot of stuff may be listed cheaper online, but it's important to remember that customer service, atmosphere, and convenience* also factor into the price. I'd rather pay a small premium to enjoy a pleasant shop than pay for shipping from somewhere online.
*Convenience cuts both ways. I don't have Prime or anything like that so a local shop is the only way to get something same-day, but I recognize that I do have to leave the house and probably drive somewhere.
Plus once you’ve established that relationship, you can often get effectively competitive prices anyway, either in the form of the occasional freebie, or, especially in items with significant margin, like musical instruments, substantial discounts off sticker.
A lot of stuff may be listed cheaper online, but it's important to remember that customer service, atmosphere, and convenience* also factor into the price. I'd rather pay a small premium to enjoy a pleasant shop than pay for shipping from somewhere online.
*Convenience cuts both ways. I don't have Prime or anything like that so a local shop is the only way to get something same-day, but I recognize that I do have to leave the house and probably drive somewhere.