Love is rarely about grand gestures. More often, it shows up in the everyday choices we make. Like where we buy our coffee, who we call for professional services, which businesses and community groups we support, and how intentionally we invest in the places we call home.
That’s the spirit behind Love Local, a campaign from Think Local First Society in Victoria, British Columbia. It’s a gentle reminder—and an invitation—to pause, notice, and intentionally support the businesses and community organizations that give our neighbourhoods their character and help our local economy thrive.
Local businesses and community groups are woven into the fabric of our daily lives. They coach and sponsor our kids’ teams, contribute to school fundraisers, donate to local causes, and step up quietly when support is needed. They are the familiar faces behind the counter and the committed people working behind the scenes to make our community stronger, more connected, and more resilient.
Why Should We Support Local in Victoria?
As a small business owner myself, I see the impact of local support every day. A thoughtful recommendation, a shared social media post, or a returning customer can change the trajectory of someone’s week. Or sometimes even their year! Beyond the financial impact, it’s deeply affirming to feel supported as a business owner. It tells people that their work matters and that their community sees them.
Supporting our community is also where Think Local First Society plays an important role. We exist to amplify connection and collaboration. As a hub for local businesses and community groups, we create space for organizations to support one another, share resources, and work together with intention. All to make Greater Victoria a better place to work and live. While our foundation is business-to-business, the ripple effect is felt business-to-consumer and across the broader community. When local organizations choose to support each other, the entire region benefits.
Simple Ways to Show Local Love
So how can you show a little love for local?
Here are a few simple, intentional actions anyone can take:
- Name it. Share positive experiences and recommendations—online and in person. Google reviews and word of mouth are powerful tools for local love!
- Recommend locally. When someone asks for a referral, think local first.
- Engage intentionally. Follow, like, comment on, and share posts from businesses and community groups you believe in. I would love it if you would follow Carter Notary on Instagram!
- Be curious. Try a new local shop, service, or organization you haven’t yet discovered. You might discover a new favorite!
- Ask the question. Before defaulting to big-box or online options, pause and ask: Is there a local alternative?
Loving local doesn’t require perfection. It just requires intention. Every choice sends a message that local matters and that community is worth investing in.
If you’re a business owner or community group looking to connect, collaborate, and make a positive impact, I invite you to learn more about Think Local First Society and join us in strengthening our community, one local choice at a time.
In 2020, we banged our pots to show support.
In 2026, this is how we show up.
Think Local. Choose Local. Love Local.
Join Think Local First Society’s Love Local campaign by sharing a simple gesture of support for the businesses and community groups that make our region thrive!
- Take a photo holding a heart—or make a heart shape with your hands
- Post it on Instagram
- Tag @thinklocalfirstyyj
- Use the hashtags #LoveLocal #ThinkLocalFirst #LoveLocalYYJ
Whether you’re a business owner, part of a community group, or someone who simply believes in supporting local, this is your moment to show the love. We’ll be sharing and celebrating posts throughout the campaign.
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💛 LOVE LOCAL CHALLENGE 💛 Show us how you Love Local. 📸 Take a photo in front of your favorite local business, holding a piece of paper with a heart on it. Or make a heart shape with your hands. We’ll share and celebrate the love for local businesses and community groups across our region.💛 |
