Last minute Christmas ideas that support local businesses

POCATELLO, Idaho (KIFI/KIDK) - With only one week until Christmas, it's crunch time to find gifts.

Online shopping is more convenient than ever, but buying from local businesses is the best way to support the local economy.

“It’s not only the economy, it’s the spirit of the town. I mean, if you want a waste land to live in, right?” said Will Peterson, the owner of Pocatello bookstore, Walrus and Carpenter.

Old Town Pocatello is full of unique shops, like Peterson's, that can be an inspiration for a gift idea.

Enchantments is a locally owned business that sells crystals, posters, incense, swords and chakra-healing singing bowls.

Down the road at Walrus and Carpenter, you can find books for every member of the family.

“I’ve got everything here, mainly used. I’ve got a few new books,” Peterson said.

Next door, you can shop for the angler in your life.

“We do have rod building, fly tying and in the spring (we have) intro to fly-fishing clinics,” said Brandon Morrison, of Snake River Fly Co.

Snake River Fly even offers guided fishing trips down the Snake River, which can be booked as a Christmas gift through the store to support the local fishing community.

“We have a lot of customers that come down here that are always returning. I feel like you can build your community base a lot in that aspect, which I think is awesome,” Morrison said.

You can find treasures in any local store, sometimes things you wouldn't find online or at a chain store.