BBB Offers Tips for Shopping Small this Saturday

“Last year, we had to give a huge thanks to everyone who came out to the Long Beach Makers Mart”, stated SIN-MIN owner Tyler Critelli to the Downtown Long Beach Alliance (DLBA), speaking on last year’s Makers Mart in the East Village Arts District. Launched by American Express in 2010, shopping “small” on the Saturday after Thanksgiving has turned into a big deal.

That “we’re in this together” approach is what makes small businesses so great.

That means no big box stores – just Mom and Pops – and there are a lot in Vacaville, especially downtown.

“We are not on Main Street and business is harder on the offseason”, said Jessica Beierle, general manager for clothing store Figue, which will take 15 percent off most purchases. Limited access to credit is a problem for small businesses across the board, but it hits hardest in the communities that need economic development the most. That is exactly what Downtown Somerville is offering at their Shop Small Celebration, which highlights the authentic experiences that independent businesses can uniquely provide.

However, with stories of prospective small business owners being forced to jump through hoops and pay costly registration fees in order to set up their business, Strong says local governments often “still get in the way”. Jewelry, home goods and athletic apparel are among items featured, she said, and staff will be available to help any customers who want to order appliances, a newly offered category of merchandise.

“If small businesses can find smart strategies to leverage each other’s products, expertise and customers they’re immediately multiplying what they could achieve alone”, she said.

Many consumers say Small Business Saturday events encourage them to shop at small businesses the rest of the year. “It is so important that they succeed”.

When people buy something at a participating business and present the passport, they will earn a stamp. “I love that Small Business Saturday is a thing! We try to support each other”. Led by Women Impacting Public Policy (WIPP), the Small Business Saturday Coalition was created in 2011 to help amplify the Shop Small message.

According to the 2012 Census Bureau data, there are over five million small businesses in the United States, each employing less than 20 people. Merchants will offer specials and refreshments along with entertainment such as carolers and live music.