Holiday shopping brings local businesses economic boost at Santa Maria Town Center Mall
SANTA MARIA, Calif. – People in Santa Maria are shopping for the holidays, and businesses at the Santa Maria Town Center Mall see an increase in revenue.
Maria Camacho started her business at the downtown Fridays event, where many food trucks and stands get together and sell goods in Santa Maria.
Flash forward to now, and her business, Novedades Mexicana, has had its own space at the town center mall for the last year.
“It’s amazing. I was really scared to start it off, you know because it’s something different. it’s very cultured,” said Camacho. So I thought a lot was not really going to be into it. but surprisingly, a lot of people have been enjoying it.”
The Santa Maria native says her family-owned business brings rich Mexican culture to the community.
And also features some perfect holiday gifts.
“They do share with me that it reminds them of their home,” said Camacho. “You know, so it makes me feel happy that I’m able to bring stuff for them that reminds me of their home of their family. so it’s just overwhelming with all the happiness people bring to our business.”
It’s also a busy time down at Luxury Perfume.
“Business for the Christmas aspect has been really great, being since it’s pretty early,” said store seasonal worker Vanessa Sevilla.
Workers say this is the biggest sales time of the year, and it's especially important after the pandemic.
“Keep pushing through, especially just trying- you know, reach out and hello out to as many people as possible,” said Sevilla. “You know, sometimes people just come through like, I don’t know what to do. I don’t know what to get. It’s just helping out as many people as possible.”
As for Camacho, she has this advice for aspiring business owners.
“Just go for it,” said Camacho. “Even if you start with 10 or 20 dollars- start with your own. make jewelry, sell anything, and you’ll eventually get out there. and don’t give up on your dreams. “
Local business owners at the Santa Maria Town Center Mall hope shoppers continue supporting local businesses as some are recovering from the pandemic.
