Local stores offer deals ahead of Small Business Saturday

Edward and Pinson both hope the boost in business locally is something they hope continues after this Small Business Saturday concludes.

“Keep the money in the area instead of it going to all the big corporations all the time, you know help out small families around here and local people”, said Marlon McDonald.

Local business owners told Newschannel 4 they always have a great turnout on Small Business Saturday.

Another new business, the Beef Jerky Outlet, is a little different from Bella Blues, but owner Bunty Patel is just as appreciative of local support as Ragsdale.

American express created small business Saturday which has turned a national event. “I think it gets the word out that it’s important to shop small”. “If you don’t come out and shop with us, we won’t be here”. “I like to support them in return”.

“Anything we can do to advertise throughout the community is a stronger advertisement than what we could do on our own”, Fowler said.

That’s why in 2011 the U.S. Senate supported Small Business Saturday as a day for small businesses to get their name out, and encourage people to consider small retailers as they buy gifts for the holiday season.

“We can’t compete with Black Friday, but hopefully shop small will be the competition today”, said Marc Baudendistel, who owns AntiquiTeas in Winter Garden.

In small towns like Anna and Jonesboro, shoppers said it brings out the best of the community and breathes new life in their downtown district.

A year ago more than 95 million people shopped on Small Business Saturday.

Metzinger says Small Business Saturday is the biggest day of the year for her business.

The money spent locally, business owners say, stays in the community – which helps residents in the long run.