It’s Small Business Saturday! Let’s make this holiday season a time of joy, giving, and spreading the word about our favorite small businesses. Big-box retailers and online shopping giants may dominate the market but today let’s call attention to the profound impact of supporting small businesses this time of year. I grew up in my parents’ restaurant business and I know how hard mom and pop owners work and how much heart it takes to succeed. Let’s shine the spotlight on shopping small, the impact it makes, and the ripple effect of positive change it creates in our communities.
Fostering Local Economy:
When you make the choice to shop small, you contribute directly to the growth of your local economy. Small businesses are the lifeline of communities. They provide employment opportunities and reinvest their earnings locally. By purchasing from them, or even just spreading the word about them, you can help create a thriving environment where small businesses can flourish. This may even lead to increased job stability and overall economic growth.
Unique and Thoughtful Gifts:
Small businesses tend to offer a treasure trove of unique and carefully chosen products. Shopping small gives you the opportunity to discover one-of-a-kind gifts with a personal touch. From handcrafted items to homemade treats, these thoughtful gifts not only bring joy to the receiver but also supports the talent and creativity of local artisans and entrepreneurs.
Personalized Customer Experience:
One of the memorable benefits of shopping small is their dedication to providing exceptional customer service. Small businesses allow you to enjoy a more personalized experience complete with attentive staff who genuinely care about your needs. They often go the extra mile to ensure you have a memorable experience, while offering expert advice and even customized options.
Building Relationships and Trust:
When you shop small, you’re not just making a business transaction; you’re building a long-lasting relationship. Small business owners often have a deep passion for what they do. They are invested in the satisfaction and success of their customers. With your patronage, you become part of a close-knit community where your support is genuinely valued. This leads to long-lasting connections and a sense of belonging.
Putting it into Practice:
It’s easy to shop Amazon for the items on your shopping list and that may be the best place to find them given time constraints and what your loved ones are asking for but let’s make an effort to be more aware and seek out small business experiences. My blog last week focused on gift ideas for the health enthusiast in your life. Many of the items I highlighted are friends of mine that either own their own business like me or women who are local consultants for companies like Pampered Chef, Zyia, and Think Goodness. I’ve compiled a list and made shopping easy so check it out here.
Other Favorites of Mine:
Most of these didn’t make my blog last week because they are not health related but still some of my favorites and worth mentioning.
Gracie’s Creations– I might be a little biased about this one but she makes adorable items that are perfect Christmas gifts for kids and adults who are young at heart. 😉
Manchester Craft Market-tons of local New England artists work all in one place. They even offer classes. I always find such cute items there!
Cafe on the Oval-also biased. My dad is the one with the glasses on his head when you click on the link. The food is delicious! My daughter and I were just there last weekend.
All Real Meal -I forgot this one last week. For those busy nights where you want to eat a healthy, home cooked meal but you don’t want to cook. Great gift for busy moms or someone who is sick, just had surgery or for whatever reason can’t cook as much as they would like.
I am sure there are more I am forgetting but my point is there are lots of opportunities to shop small. Seek them out and make an impact!
Make an Impact:
When making your shopping list this holiday season, let’s embrace the importance of shopping small. By supporting small businesses, you contribute to the economic well-being of your community, discover unique and thoughtful gifts, enjoy personalized service, and build meaningful relationships. Every purchase you make has the power to make a significant difference. So, as you embark on your holiday shopping journey, remember the impact you can create by choosing to shop small.
Wishing you much love, health, and happiness,
Christine
