There are all sorts of reasons to shop locally. It's a convenient drive from the Beavercreek homes for sale and Xenia homes for sale where you're considering buying a new home. It reduces your carbon footprint by cutting down on driving. You're supporting local businesses and investing in your community. Plus, if you shop at local shows and shops, you're likely to find unique items not available elsewhere and possibly at a good price.

So why not finish your holiday gift shopping by taking a look at local goods? Our REALTORS® think you'll be thrilled at what you find. Here are some local gems you won't want to miss.

1. Holiday Craft and Gift Show. 645 Infirmary Road, Montgomery County Fairgrounds, Dayton, OH.
   Dayton's just a 20-minute drive from Beavercreek homes, so plan to spend Black Friday, Nov. 26, shopping among the 100-plus tables and booths at the Holiday Craft and Gift Show, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The fair is also open on Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Shop for crocheted goods and other homemade crafts, ornaments, wreaths, and personalized gifts. Admission is $4.

2. Purple Poinsettia Craft & Vendor Show. Greene County Fairgrounds. 120 Fairground Road, Xenia, OH. 
   The Purple Poinsettia Craft and Vendor Show, Dec. 4-5, will feature over 100 booths of crafters and artists, farmers, jewelers, authors, and creators of canvas purses, flowers, plants, and much more. Among the items for sale: goat soaps, fossil jewelry, donkey soaps, wool dryer balls, string art, chocolate-covered pretzels, acrylic tumblers, walking sticks, etched glass, and other items. Admission is $3.

3. Agnes and Orson. 79 Plum St., Beavercreek, OH.
   Find an affordable and sassy gift at Agnes and Orson. For kids, check out the Starry Eyed Dragon or Snuggler Fox; a sweet book such as the "If I were an Alien," "If I Were a Bee," series; clever new-parenting cards; kids' clothing such as the hat and gown set in Tutu Elephant print; and more. If you're looking for locally-made gifts you won't find on Amazon, this is the place. You'll also want to come in to meet Dresden the shop dog.

4. Puzzles Plus. Fairfield Plaza, 1273 N. Fairfield Rd., or The Greene, 4465 Glengarry Dr., both in Beavercreek, OH.
   Do you have a puzzle hound in your life, young or old? If yes, then Puzzles Plus is the place to go for jigsaw puzzles, brainteasers, puzzle books, board games, kids' puzzles, and Mega Bloks. Plus participate in Puzzle It Forward by bringing your used jigsaw puzzles for donation and for a discount on new ones. There's also puzzle framing for your prize puzzles. Check out either Beavercreek location.

5. Wick Therapy Candle Company. 55 Chestnut St., Beavercreek, OH.
   Is someone in your life drawn to aromatherapy? No need to take a chance by ordering special candles online when you can visit a local shop and find just the thing. Shop for jar candles, travel tins, wax tarts, room spray, and limited edition candles at Wick Therapy Candle Company. Or, create a custom candle scent for that special person in your life; better yet, bring your loved one in and let them create their own scent.

6. The Greene Shopping Center. 4452 Buckeye Lane, Beavercreek, OH
   Shop your favorite stores at The Greene Shopping Center: Lane Bryant, Talbot's, Eddie Bauer, JJill, the Toggery, Athleta, Bath and Body Works, and many more. Need a break from shopping? See a movie, have a drink, or stop for dinner. The Greene has it all.