See JP’s “Hidden Gems” at Local First Fair on 9/14

Over 40 independent, locally-owned businesses and nonprofits will exhibit at the Jamaica Plain “Local First Fair” on Thursday, September 14, 3:30pm-dusk at the Loring-Greenough House, 12 South Street, JP. (The rain date is Thursday, September 21, 3:30pm-dusk at the same location.)

Jamaica Plain is known for its eclectic mix of locally-owned, community-oriented retail stores, restaurants, and cafes, but it’s also the home of many “hidden gems” that residents don’t usually see. The Local First Fair will feature businesses that offer a wide range of personal and professional services, including coaching, financial services, holistic health, legal, marketing, personal training, photography, and printing.

JP’s many arts-related nonprofits and businesses, where residents can learn and practice fine arts, crafts, dance, music, theatre, and more, will also be represented at the Fair, along with some popular JP retail stores and restaurants.

The fair is sponsored by JP Local First, a network of local and independently owned businesses based in Jamaica Plain and surrounding neighborhoods. For more information, visit http://jplocalfirst.org/localfirstfair

In addition to the Local First Fair, JP Local First is running a selfie contest to win a $1,000 shopping spree at JP Local First member businesses. Participants can enter by snapping a selfie at a JP Local First member business and publicly posting the photo to social media with the hashtag #jplocalfirst and the hashtag for that business.

The grand prize will give the winner two hours to spend the $1000 at a minimum of 5 member businesses. JP Local First will also award a $100 prize to the person who submits the most entries. The last day to enter the selfie contest is September 10 at midnight; the drawing will take place at the Local First Fair and the winner must be present to win. (For contest details, visit jplocalfirst.org/selfie1000.)