For those who read my previous post on the benefits of shopping small, you can probably guess that I am very excited about Small Business Saturday.
Nestled in between Black Friday and Cyber Monday, Small Business Saturday is a day set aside every year after Thanksgiving to support small businesses. The event, which was started by American Express back in 2010, is to remind consumers that they are a key component in helping small businesses grow and thrive in our communities.
If you plan on shopping locally, in-person or online, here are a few tips that may make navigating Small Business Saturday and the holiday season easier.
1. Pay attention to social media and e-newletters
Social media posts and e-mails, not only from the businesses themselves but from organizations like business improvement districts and neighborhood associations, give a good overview of discounts, gift ideas, store hours, and holiday specials.
Ask around. I am sure you know someone like me who would be able to run off a list of great small businesses to check out. Word of mouth is huge in learning about different small businesses and local makers.
2. Cash over credit
Many small business owners accept credit cards, but always remember there is a fee with every transaction. Whenever I shop small, I always try to have money in my purse and ask at checkout if cash would be preferred. At the end of the day, any purchase is appreciated, so you do not have to stress if a credit card is all that you can use.
3. Holiday and Maker Markets
It’s such a great feeling when all of my favorite vendors are in the same place. It makes shopping so simple! During the holiday season, be on the look-out for holiday markets that may be hosted. These types of pop-up events are common during the holiday season and create a way to bring community together while supporting our local vendors.
In addition to pop-up markets, we have a number of stores that host our local artists and vendors each and every day. From the Fort Orange General Store and Lark Street Mercantile in Albany, to Jay St. Collective in Schenectady, there isn’t a shortage of great local makers that are all in one place. (I always head to those three places for all of my Nipper-themed Albany items!)
4. Gifts supporting local non-profits
If you want to give a gift and also support a local non-profit, check and see which non-profits have merchandise where the proceeds benefit the organization. Anyone who knows me knows that I am a big supporter of the Albany Public Library (APL) so my friends may be getting items like APL mugs and baby onesies for their holiday gift. There are other non-profits out there that have items that would make perfect gifts, and a bonus, you are making a donation in the process.
5. Gift an experience
Everyone has those family members or friends that just seem to have all the little gadgets, gizmos, and whatchamacallits. Consider giving the gift of an experience by purchasing tickets to a local show or event. I was given tickets to my first show at Capital Rep this fall and it made the perfect date night. (Those of you who missed, Dracula: A Comedy of Terrors, my regards. It was fantastic). For the foodies in your life, you can’t go wrong with a gift card to a family-owned restaurant, cafe, or deli. Or, if you really have no idea what to give, let them pick out their own new thingamabob with a gift card to a local boutique. If you want to have them make a day of it, give the perfect trifecta with one of each for a day of shopping, food, and a show!
6. Grab some coffee, have lunch
With all the walking around while shopping at these fantastic small retailers, take some time to stop at your local coffee shop or restaurant. Try to include dining at your favorite, locally owned eatery or purchasing some freshly-brewed coffee from the neighborhood cafe. These non-retail businesses need your support too, so don’t forget about them when shopping small.
7. Become the maker
My daughter is far more artsy than me, but I do make attempts to be creative. Sign-up to take a class where you are making the crafty gift. The Albany Art Room or The Arts Center of the Capital Region have a number of classes where you can become the maker! Poetry or art classes not your thing? Do what I do and create photo gifts. Photo books, puzzles, and magnets with your favorite family photos are always a hit. Troy-based Pinhole Press is my go-to spot for my photo gift needs.
8. Not just my community
I bought something the other day from a small business… in another state. I never left my house. Shopping small does not only have to include the businesses right down the street from you. With sites like Etsy, it is easy and convenient to buy from makers and small shops right from the comfort of your own home. I do like day trips though, so you may see me strolling around New England or the Catskills with bags in hand.
9. Don’t just support, SHARE
When you are out on Small Business Saturday or shopping around your community this holiday season… post! Use social media to share photos of items you purchased or mention a new business you discovered. Help to spread the word to others who may also want to support these businesses.
10. #ShopSmall All Year
Small businesses still need to have a good flow of customers outside of the holiday season. Shopping small may be a little bit pricier, but an investment in our small businesses is an investment in our community. Local small businesses give their communities a distinct character with products, services, and job opportunities. Keep sending the message with your dollars that community counts… not just around the holidays but all year long.
Have a favorite place to shop small? Share in the comments!
