WREXHAM residents are being encouraged to shop locally this festive season by small businesses across the county.
With Black Friday and Cyber Monday weekend and Christmas just around the corner, many independent shops across the region are fearful the online shopping world will impact their business.
While many are struggling with the cost-of-living crisis on a day-to-day basis, several businesses admit they are relying on Christmas shoppers to survive.
'Making Memories and Scents' is situated on Charles Street, Wrexham.
The family-run business offers a beautiful selection of handmade and personalised items including soy wax melts and candles.
Owned by Michelle Humphreys and her daughter, the business heavily depends on Wrexham residents choosing to shop locally, especially during the festive period, which is a "make or break" time of year.
She said: "One way to put money back into your community is to commit to shopping local or supporting small businesses.
"Sadly, a lot of our shops are closing because people choose to shop online making it harder for small businesses to stay open."
Over on Yorke Street, Wrexham, 'Regent House of Flowers' is featuring handmade wreaths and one-of-a-kind Grinch trees this season.
Owner Laura Evison said: "People really should shop locally as we offer a friendly and helpful service all year round. We love being on the Wrexham High Street for them.
"Without their support, there would be no specialised skills available for our trade."
Meanwhile on the Wrexham Industrial Estate, Bryn Lane, 'Crazy Candy Co' is a family-run business ready to dispatch orders by post, hand or deliver locally within 5 miles of Wrexham, carrying everyone's favourite pick and mix treats, American and imported sweets and freeze dried candy.
The Crazy Candy Co team said: "Customers are amazed that they have not found us before and always return."
To^st )Toast) Deli and Cafe, also situated on Charles Street, not only offers delicious food and service, but locally sourced and produced gifts.
From artwork and prints to cheese, homeware and confectionary, the award-winning cafe has plenty on offer which will cause a positive ripple affect for other businesses.
Owner Claire Wright said: "It’s really important that customers try to shop local if they can as we support many other local producers by stocking their products in our cafe and deli.
"By supporting us they also support them as well and this helps with the local economy and jobs market."
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Wrexham's much-loved Ty Pawb centre is also the home to many small businesses which are dependent on loyal customers during the festive period.
The 'Personal Present People' offers creative and imaginative gifts for all occasions, personalised to make it extra special in the build-up to Christmas.
A member of the team admitted to witnessing a shocking decline in the number of people out and about, which has had a "detrimental impact" on their shop.
Only by supporting local high streets during busy and seasonal periods can residents encourage businesses to grow and boost the economy.
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