"It was Small Business Saturday and all through the town, there were people shopping for the best deals around. I grabbed my friends and headed to Main Street, where we found some fun gifts — you wouldn't believe!"
You know about Black Friday and Cyber Monday, but have you heard of Small Business Saturday? There are thousands of amazing local business options throughout the country, and when you shop small you're putting money directly back into your community and helping neighbors. Plus, many of the local shopping opportunities offer significant discounts on this day, such as the 10 percent off storewide at Northern Lighting.
Here are our top five reasons why you should shop local this year:
1. Enjoy a Personal Touch
Local businesses know you, your family and probably even your extended family, so when you shop small it can often feel like a family reunion. You're also likely to be waited on by the shop owner, who will have a fresh perspective on the variety of products available in the store.
2. Support Your Community
When you shop local, much of the money stays right there in your community to create jobs, help local families pay bills, and increase the taxes paid into your community. That means better schools, better local jobs and more opportunities for your friends and family. Small businesses are also much more likely to give back to the community through volunteering, donations and contributions to local sporting or school teams.
3. Boutique is "In"
Everyone wants to find something unique for those on their holiday shopping lists, and going to a big box retailer is probably not the best option. Small businesses often have small batches of products or homemade options that allow you to customize gifts to a much higher degree. Shopping small also gives you a story to tell along with the gift!
4. More Time for Family
Realistically, large stores can take up a great deal of time and offer an over-abundance of choices. Why sift through all the dreck, when you can shop local and find a small business that provides a curated (and smaller!) group of options? You finish your shopping more quickly and head back home for family time sooner as well.
5. Live the American Dream
Whether you own your own small business or enjoy supporting a local business in your community, the reality is that small businesses are the backbone of America. More than half the gross domestic product of the U.S. is driven by small businesses, and that's not a small number. Do your part to keep the economy healthy by shopping small!
Don't forget, once the turkey is gone and you've finished your holiday decorating, head over to Northern Lighting in Westerville on Small Business Saturday and find everything on your wish list at 10 percent off throughout the store! You'll not only get a great deal, but a great feeling knowing that you're supporting your community. Show your local love!
