Courtesy of Shreveport Events
by Ariel Roberson, ShrevePossible
Tinsel is a beloved annual event in Shreveport-Bossier. Organizers are gearing up for its ninth year of spreading holiday cheer. This unique shopping extravaganza, held on the first Friday of December, has become known as “Locals Black Friday.”
Tinsel is not a typical shopping event. It’s a celebration of community, small businesses and the festive spirit of the holiday season.
The primary goal of Tinsel is to encourage shopping locally, keeping those dollars in the local economy. In an age when online shopping and convenience often take precedence, Tinsel emphasizes the importance of supporting small businesses and strengthening the community.
But what is Tinsel, and how does it work? Let’s unwrap the details.
Courtesy of @TinselShreveport Instagram
The Tinsel experience
Tinsel is not the average shopping spree. It’s a carefully curated adventure that combines shopping, entertainment and community spirit. The event kicks off at 5 p.m. on the first Friday of December and continues until 9:00 p.m. Participants have two starting points to choose from: Superior Steakhouse and the Uptown Shopping Center, right in front of Learning Express.
Upon arrival at these starting points, Tinsel goers check in, receive a wristband and hop on one of the fleet of iShuttles. These shuttles transport attendees up and down Line Avenue, making stops at various local businesses that are part of the Tinsel experience.
Typically, about 20 to 25 businesses participate. Each business that takes part goes the extra mile to provide an unforgettable shopping experience. Shoppers can expect special entertainment, hors d’oeuvres, beverages and even cocktails. The atmosphere is fun and vibrant, making Tinsel an event that many look forward to every year.
The Origin Story of Tinsel
Tinsel was conceived with a simple idea in mind – to support and promote local businesses. In an era when small businesses face stiff competition from online giants and big-box retailers, Tinsel seeks to ensure the support of local businesses.
The organizers of Tinsel wanted to ensure local shops had a fighting chance. By creating an event that encourages people to shop locally, they hoped to channel more spending into Shreveport-Bossier, supporting the local economy and fostering a sense of community.
Courtesy of @TinselShreveport Instagram
The role of iShuttles
A unique feature of Tinsel is the iShuttles, which have been a part of the event since its inception. These shuttles add an extra layer of excitement to the Tinsel experience. They continuously ferry shoppers from one business to the next, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable journey along Line Avenue.
Ticketing and support for local businesses
Tinsel is a ticketed event, with a ticket price of $35. This ticket includes transportation on the shuttles and access to all the participating businesses along the route. The businesses that take part in Tinsel also contribute financially to support the event, as it brings in additional customers and sales for them. Pop-up shops are $50, and store sign-up is $100.
Tinsel-goers receive special discounts and offers at these businesses, further incentivizing them to shop local. Discounts can range from 15% off purchases to buy-one-get-one-free deals, creating a win-win situation for both shoppers and local businesses.
Courtesy of @TinselShreveport Instagram
The impact on local boutiques
For many local boutiques, Tinsel is a game-changer. It marks the beginning of the holiday season and brings in an influx of customers. Many businesses have come to rely on Tinsel as a part of their annual sales strategy.
The numbers speak for themselves. Tinsel brings in new customers, introducing them to businesses they might not have visited otherwise. This not only boosts sales dramatically but also helps small businesses establish lasting connections with their community.
Courtesy of @TinselShreveport Instagram
The hottest spots along the route
The hottest spots along the Tinsel route can vary from year to year. Some businesses go all out to create a lively and festive atmosphere for their customers, while others opt for a more relaxed approach. The range of experiences ensures that there’s something for everyone, regardless of their shopping preferences.
Courtesy of @TinselShreveport Instagram
Feedback and community spirit
Tinsel has garnered a wealth of positive feedback through the years. Business owners are grateful for the event, as it brings them additional customers and sales, vital for their survival. Tinsel-goers express their excitement for the event, praising it as a fun and festive way to kick off the holiday season. The community spirit, the joy of shopping local, and the lively atmosphere make Tinsel an event to remember.
Tinsel is not just a shopping event; it’s a celebration of the spirit of community and the resilience of local businesses. As the event continues to grow and evolve, it reinforces the importance of supporting small businesses, fostering community ties and creating unforgettable memories during the holiday season. Mark your calendar for the next “Locals Black Friday” and be a part of Tinsel’s celebration of all things local.
Courtesy of @TinselShreveport Instagram
