Christmas shopping at local, Black-owned businesses

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WAND) - Shopping with local black businesses for the holidays has gone quite well this year. Especially for Hair Salon owner, Talisha Kelly.

This year, she decided to host a Christmas Party to give back to her clients.

“It’s more so a chance for them to win like Air Pods and money and gift cards and then other items that I think my customers would like or that we talk about,” said Kelly.

For the entire month of December, Kelly has been working hard to show her appreciation for her clients.

“The entire month of December we’ve been giving them gifts and presents after their appointment or when they just stop by to see us," said Kelly. "So I wanted to have a pajama themed Christmas Party.”

Over in Downtown Urbana, Enchantment Alley has been swamped with business with customers purchasing items from incense, crystals, and more.

“We’re seeing an uptick in sales because of the holiday gift giving season, and a lot of the students are getting ready to go home so they’re coming in to get gifts to take home to their family and loved ones which we appreciate them shopping local,” said Co-Owner, Tina Stover.