Please consider shopping locally owned, independent businesses for your holiday shopping this year. Each dollar spent at a locally owned business recirculates in the community approximately six times more than each dollar spent at a non-locally owned companies. The muffin I buy at the cafe allows the cafe owner to purchase something at the dress shop next door, allowing the dress shop owner to shop at the pharmacy and so on.

If you are wondering about where to shop in Monroe this year, here are some ideas for the Downtown area. There are so many great businesses that I will be breaking this up into a series of posts.  See Part I for downtown eating establishments and gift certificates.

If your holiday shopping list includes collectibles, figurines or home décor items, options abound in Monroe's Downtown area.

On the east side, start at the Monroe Antique Mall.  Two buildings, multiple floor, countless vendor booths.  You are certain to find the perfect gift for any lover of classic items.  A few doors down is Europa.  Europa moved to the Downtown area last year and they have been a wonderful addition.  They are known for their collections of heirloom lace items.  The imported lace curtains, table runners, and doilies are heirloom quality the likes of which are rarely found in the United States any more.  Europa also features home decor items, framed art, figurines and gifts.  The decorated martini glasses are a hoot, and Luis is a huge fan of their tuned wind chimes.

On the east side of the Square, you will find Bauman Kitchens & Giftware.  Browse the three floors of collectible figurines and glassware.  Their door chimes are a favorite in Monroe, too.  Next door, is the place to stop for any teens or young adults with a sense of humor on your list.  Dilly Bean has a large collection of eclectic gifts.  They feature metaphysical themed dragon and fairie gifts, Reniassance Fair style swords and collectible knives, body jewelry, garden chimes, spinners, books and much more.  Do not forget to stop in at Schwartz Pharmacy either!  More than just a pharmacy, you will find collectible figurines, children's collectibles and small toys, and Monroe-themed items.

Over on the south side of the Square, stop in at The Green Door for a variety of home decor items including custom furniture, rugs, framed art and more.  Their items are perfect for anyone who love decorating.  Stop in at House to Home on the south side for more decorating items.  House to Home relocated from just off the Square to their current location earlier this year, so give them a great welcome this holiday season.  Finish off your travels on the south side of the Square with a stop in Das Baumhaus.  One of the most eclectic stores in the downtown, you can find anything there - collectible figurines, framed art, women's clothing and accessories, unique cards, and children's collectibles (Webkinz, Beanie Babies and more). Pop just slightly off the Square to the south to visit Wing and Pond Gallery.  They have an extensive collection of framed art work, all beautifully matted and skillfully framed.

Next installment - clothing for children and adults.