Small Business Saturday falls every year the Saturday after Thanksgiving. Just one day after Black Friday, this holiday is dedicated to helping drive sales in small and local businesses.
According to American Express, the founder of the holiday, 67% of money spent at small businesses stays in the community, so by shopping local, you’ll actually be helping your entire community. This year, instead of supporting large corporations and mass production, why not support your neighborhood shops instead? We’ve gathered some tips to help you do this.
Get to know your local businesses
Take some time to walk around and visit local businesses to understand what they offer, the people behind them and how you can best support them. Put aside a morning or an afternoon to do this when you are not in a rush. Then when it comes time to buy something your favorite shops will be top of mind.
Plan to shop local
If you are waiting until the last minute to purchase a gift, shopping local might not always be the easiest option. Planning gift purchases ahead of time is a behavioral change that you will need to practice in order to give yourself ample time to buy (and potentially ship) gifts. You can also start shopping more locally for non-gift items if there are mom & pop shops in that category.
Online businesses
Local shops are not always physical locations. Think about friends, neighbors and community members who have shops or offer online services that might not have the funds or the need for a brick and mortar location. Before you support large corporations and mass production, get to know the entrepreneurs and small businesses near you who would benefit and appreciate your support. You’ll feel good by doing good and have more of a story behind the item you purchase.
Art & craft fairs
Shopping at art fairs is an easy way to support local artisans and artists who sell unique and handmade wares and jewelry. In addition to some higher priced items, art fairs often carry affordable jewelry and smaller items for under $30.
Farmer’s markets
Farmer’s markets are one of the most well-known examples of local shopping, and for good reason. Farmer’s markets allow local growers to present their goods, often at prices comparable to the grocery store. And since the produce doesn’t have to travel as far, you can be assured it’ll have more nutrients and taste better.
So there you have it, a few tips to help you shop local on Small Business Saturday. We hope you’ll keep these in mind as you’re out shopping for holiday gifts, and if you need any recommendations, you can read our top low-waste gift suggestions here.
