Favoring experiences over things is trending, especially among younger generations. This will transform our way of life in both predictable and unforeseen ways. 

While Northern Californian is home to some of the world’s most dramatic destinations, we are also treated to festivals held in quaint towns and hosted by small shopping districts. Almost everyone has a favorite they never miss. (Drop me a line and tell me about yours!)

As for us, we always have a great time at the Capitola Art & Wine Festival, held the second weekend after Labor Day. Sipping locally produced wines while browsing the output of creative minds kicks off Indian summer in all the right ways. And it’s just seconds from the beach!

After my first glass I thought about what would happen to the festival—and so many like it—without the small shops and independent restaurants nearby. Can you imagine such an event at a shuttered mall or worse, a distribution center? I nearly choked on my Chardonnay. 

Not only would the location be a non-starter, sponsorships and the friendly atmosphere provided by local businesses would be absent. In other words, those affordable experiences would cease. 

Popular social media mogul, Gary Vee, warns impatient Instagrammers to expect hard work. After all, everyone begins with zero followers. The same is true for any entrepreneur. There isn’t a major fashion designer, restaurant, artist, or wine maker who didn’t get their start at the grassroots level and many were discovered by small brick & mortar long before they went on to larger production. I remember this for every Art & Wine Festival, especially when I brighten my home with a new piece or two.

So by all means, enjoy life through enriching experiences and when you do, think about what makes it all possible. Shop small, shop local, and live it up!