Troy Warren for CNT #Celebrations

SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY

Small Business Saturday reminds us of the prime shopping opportunities right in our own communities. Not only do the small businesses where we work, live, and play offer numerous gift-giving possibilities, they are hands-on and ready to complete your shopping list with quality, thoughtful gifts.

Every year on the Saturday after Thanksgiving, the Shop Small movement energizes small business owners to prepare for customers in every way possible. That includes the traditional brick-and-mortar customer and the online shopper. The single-day event continues to grow each year. That means business owners are ready for you to shop their stores!

Small businesses feed our communities. They keep our main streets thriving and employ nearly half of the American workforce. Supporting small businesses means you’re supporting your local economy, local business, tax base, schools, and infrastructure. Your holiday shopping will put food on the tables of people you know.

You will be doing your community some good, and you will also be finding quality gifts. Small businesses take pride in their work. They’ve worked hard for their dream, and it shows in their craftsmanship.

HOW TO OBSERVE #SmallBusinessSaturday

Keep these tips in mind when shopping this holiday:

Check your holiday shopping list for those who would like handcrafted items and buy locally.

Handcrafted means a lot of things. For example, woodworking to sewing, pottery to quilting, welding to jewelry, baked goods to preserves and so much more!

Small businesses may specialize in one area or they may offer a variety of services. Don’t hesitate to walk in and explore the store. You may be surprised to find what they offer, and discover the one thing you’ve been looking for.

Who has a hard-to-shop-for family member? We all do, right? Ask the shop owner for help. They often have ideas you’ve never considered that will fill your empty stocking.

Explore your community while supporting small businesses. While finding your amazing gifts, give a shout-out to your favorite small business, too! Be sure to use #SmallBusinessSaturday to post on social media.

SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY HISTORY

American Express founded Small Business Saturday in 2010 to get more customers into small businesses the Saturday after Thanksgiving.

Small Business FAQ

Q. What kinds of small businesses can I shop locally?
A. Small businesses come in every shape and form, and you might be surprised by the selections available. Nearly every community has a diverse collection of businesses though some are more common than others.

Small Businesses Near You

Food and Drink – gift certificates, swag, specialty gifts
Tattoo artist – gift certificates, t-shirts, hats, and local art
Pet care – grooming, training, supplies, books, toys,
Book stores – books, book bags, bookmarks, games, comic books, art
Photographers – portraits, frames, classes, art
Butcher – meat packages, gift certificates, smoked meats,
Fitness centers – gift certificates, spa packages, training sessions, swag
Music stores – music, instruments, gear, classes, art
Hobby store – kits, crafts, tools, projects, supply, art, decor
Sporting goods – equipment, clothing, games, caps
Floral shops – gifts, gift cards, candy, gift baskets
Clothing stores – wearables, jewelry, shoes, hats
Technology centers – unique gifts, services, classes
Salons – gift certificates, spa treatments, manicure, pedicure

Q. Is it too late to request a custom piece for the holiday season?
A. If you want to give a custom gift, it’s important to contact the craftsperson as soon as possible. Many businesses that create custom gifts start booking orders well before Halloween. They often know how many orders they can fill in a set time frame.

Q. What kinds of gifts are custom made?
A. Custom gifts come in a variety of forms, and they are often offered by small businesses. Craftspeople often customize gifts with names, colors, or styles. They design large pieces to fit the decor, personal needs, or preferences. If you have an idea for a custom piece, contact someone local to work out the details.