The biggest shopping season of the year is upon us. What a perfect time to give gifts from our wonderful Brownwood businesses. Let’s spread the love to our friends and neighbors this holiday season by spending our money where we live.
Did you know that roughly 70 cents of every dollar spent at an independently owned business stays in the local economy, while only 40 cents spent at a chain retailer comes back to Brownwood? Not only that, but every dollar spent at a local business creates an additional 50 cents in local activity as a result of employee spending, purchasing local supplies, and utilizing local services. Choosing Brownwood First creates jobs for our community, is environmentally sustainable, and often leads to a better, more personal shopping experience. Reports have also shown that small businesses donate 250% percent more to community causes than larger department stores do. And it’s not just our community circulating Brownwood earnings. A variety of independent boutiques, bars, and restaurants invite tourists in, generating more dollars to grow Brownwood’s economy.
We are fortunate to have dozens of unique, locally owned and operated businesses to choose from in Brownwood. As you begin shopping for loved ones this holiday season, we ask that you consider spending your money in Brownwood-owned businesses before you explore bigger retailers. Think #BrownwoodFirst in your shopping routines to help us create more mindful money practices. In doing so, you will actually see the entrepreneur you’re handing your money to, and find fulfillment knowing they are going to use your dollars to support their family and fellow members of Brownwood.
Below is a guide to just a few of our thriving businesses to kick off your #BrownwoodFirst shopping spree. Share you favorite local businesses with us by using #Brownwoodfirst.
Shopping
The perfect place to kick off #BrownwoodFirst is at Shaw’s. This restored marketplace features twenty local vendors, each with unique products ranging from fashion and adventure gear to woodworking and antiques.
A western-style boutique with gypsy flair! Where Dolly Parton meets Stevie Nicks, these fashionistas have all the items for the cutest Texan outfits!
With a name like Dazzling Divas, it’s impossible to leave this fashion and accessory boutique without a stylish outfit or fabulous shoes. Their products are designed to fit any taste, body type, and lifestyle.
What once served as an old theater of refuge for World War II soldiers is now a renovated, independent bookstore. Home to new and gently used books, this is the perfect place to discover new stories.
Famous for their hand-made clay polymer earrings, Earth & Noble is a recent addition to Brownwood’s local business scene, selling trendy women’s fashion.
After seventy years, the Glamour Shop is a fashion favorite for ladies looking for quality clothing, decadent jewelry, and unique gifts.
An oldies and oddities shop specially curated for the designer, collector, and treasure hunter! Saturday’s offers a unique collection of antiques, vintage goods, and artistic paint supplies.
Food and Drink
Brownwood’s first microbrewery, honoring Teddy Roosevelt. In addition to hand-crafted beers, guests can expect homemade pizza, Teddy’s Vinehaus private label wines, and a rotating seasonal menu of town favorites and signature desserts.
In a comfortable, relaxed environment, taste from a selection of craft beer, wine, and sodas. Bring your own food, order light eats on-sight, or munch from the occasional food truck on the property.
Named after a famous winding back road just outside of Brownwood, 10 Mile Productions offers a unique Texas wine and beer tasting experience.
Along with fresh food, award-winning wines, cocktails, and delicious gelato, the Turtle Restaurant is also often host to excellent live entertainment in their garden area.
The Runaway Train Cafe is the most popular and most unique cafe in Brownwood. Located in an authentic dining train car, with all of its originality, get your classic American dishes and treats from the old-fashioned ice cream counter.
Desserts, breads, bakery, delicious street tacos, and burritos located along Baker Street in Downtown.
Stone’s Grove is an eclectic, intimate, contemporary space serving signature libations, classic cocktails, & cold beer.
Home of the original World Famous BBQ beef steak, this old-school cafeteria has been known for smoked meats, substantial sides, and delicious cobbler since 1946!
Miscellaneous
Your one-stop shop for all Texas gifts. Shop unique finds such as souvenirs, t-shirts, candles, books, steak rubs, lotions, ornaments, and more!
Bring home unique train memorabilia to commemorate Lehnis Railroad Museum. On display are a variety of exhibits interpreting the importance of the railroad in Brownwood, Central Texas, and the American Southwest.
Nathana's Tanning & Hair Salon
Yes, here you can get a stylish new hairstyle, but you may be surprised to also find a selection of gift items, hair products, trendy clothes, shoes for every season, and cute accessories.
Gifts for him? Hardware needs? Look no further! This is your locally-owned source for all your project needs.
A unique and trendy place to enjoy quality cigars, wine, and alcoholic drinks for smokers and non-smokers alike. Craft cigars are available for purchase.
Finally, for the entertainment buffs, support local performers by purchasing season tickets to Lyric Theatre’s upcoming productions.
We can’t simply say “Shop Local” without real action. We have to take the time to thoughtfully choose locally-owned businesses. Supporting our community is how we’ve built Brownwood into a place that feels like home. Let’s continue to grow. So this holiday season, shop in person, shop online, shop curbside, buy a gift card, but whatever you do, choose #BrownwoodFirst!