via American Express
It’s finally that time of the year. First comes the turkey, as I like to say, and then all things ho-ho-ho. Thanksgiving is over and the chaos has hit (and by chaos, I mean holiday shopping!).
Just as you would shop-’til-you-drop on Black Friday and try your darndest to snag the best online deals on Cyber Monday, Small Business Saturday is “the day we all shop small.”
For those of you who aren’t familiar with Small Business Saturday, it’s the Saturday after Thanksgiving on which local businesses offer extended shopping hours, early bird sales, and plenty of holiday snacks and warm drinks to go around. Not only is it a fun occasion, but it gives you a chance to give back to your community.
If you’ve never participated in Small Business Saturday, then this is the perfect year to start! This November 30th, I’m proud to say that I will not only be working at a small business, but doing some shopping too!
Here’s everything you need to know about Small Business Saturday:
- Small Business Saturday was first held on November 27, 2010.
- Many small businesses carry products made by local designers and artisans. By shopping local, you are not only supporting your local boutique, but also startup brands and artists.
- From the perspective of small business owners, it takes a lot of money, time and marketing to compete with big-box retailers and national chains. SBS is a chance to introduce their brand to a whole new audience.
- If you’re an American Express card holder, then here’s one more reason to shop local. American Express is offering a “one-time $10 statement credit for spending $10 or more in a single, in-store transaction on 11/30/13.” Make sure to take advantage of this opportunity by registering online (registration starts on Nov. 24th and is limited!) and check out the “Shop Small Map” to see which local businesses are participating in your area. It doesn’t matter where you are located across the country, there are small businesses everywhere for you to show your support.
Whenever possible, I make it a point to shop local. Whether it’s visiting your favorite clothing boutique, picking up some custom-designed holiday cards, or grabbing coffee and donuts at the downtown cafe, shopping local is a big deal. You see, when you shop local, it stays local. SBS fosters community growth and helps ensure that all of your favorite local businesses stick around.
Spread the word by liking Small Business Saturday on , following them on and hashtagging #SHOPSMALL this holiday season! Happy Shopping!
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