Publications & Sites 
The importance of shopping locally
Updated: December 22, 2011 3:35PM
The “Today” show recently did a piece stating that consumers go to the store with a list, from which they will not vary, and if it isn’t at a deep discount they walk out. As the owner of the Children’s Gift Shop in Northfield I strongly disagree.
My staff and I wait on customers daily, eager to tap into our “toy expertise” to help them make the best choices for the children in their lives. Customers value our knowledge and willingness to go the extra mile to find what they need (literally...I recently drove to Evanston to pick up a hard to find toy from Toys Etcetera ). They are not as intent on discounted toys as they are about the quality of the toys. For them, it’s not about Gobs ’O Stuff (as seen on TV), but about a few well selected items. The kids are here on Saturdays with Dad, on the way to the party for a quick gift and a wrap.
Our world view is at odds with what is reported on TV and depicted by the media. My customers are happy and filled with the confidence we give them about the choices we help them make.
In Winnetka, the Village Toy Shop is another great store. Pat and I help each other out whenever we can. Who will offer the service or care and concern for our communities’ children if we are to be discounted out of business?
People need to remember, that we are their neighbors. Our children have gone to the same schools. When I shop for the store, I am shopping for customers whose tastes I share and have learned since moving here in 1980.
Markie Carlson Gekas
Shopkeeper
Children’s Gift Shop, Northfield
