We all know how easy it can be to order your Christmas gifts online from a big box store and have them shipped (for free) anywhere in the country. You can find almost any generic, basic gift for your loved ones. It’s done, you have checked that off your list. It’s not fun, it’s not personal, it’s not helping anyone but, it’s done…
I used to be like that too. Then we moved to a small town in Virginia and I realized the value of supporting our locally owned businesses. I began to venture into the different shops and restaurants slowly at first. I became familiar with the area and the store owners and realized how much they care about their customers, their business and their community. Not only do they provide personalized service, there are unique finds everywhere you look. Some shops focus on handmade items while others offer up-cycled products, imports from other worlds or personally curated goods. When you shop small, since you are already out, you can stop for lunch at a locally sourced farm-to-table restaurant, brewery or winery. It’s a win-win.
I am so grateful that I learned the importance of shopping small. Every time I make a purchase from a small business I put money into the pockets of individuals in my community and not some nameless millionaire that does not need more money from me at all. I really appreciate the small businesses in my community for what they offer to me and our town. Without these small businesses small towns could not thrive. #savesmalltowns
Small Business Saturday is an American shopping holiday held during the Saturday after Thanksgiving in the United States during one of the busiest shopping periods of the year. This Saturday is always the last one in November, so it falls between November 24 and November 30. For more information visit: SmallBusinessSaturday
