I'm pretty passionate about supporting our local businesses and communities, and I'll happily share with you what that means. Why shop local you may say? What's the big deal? It's a big deal if you like your town, the uniqueness of it and what these independent retailers have to offer your community. Every time you spend money you are voting for those goods & services, as well as for that store. You have the power to shape your community, the questions is, what do you want it to look like?
Okay, here is just some of what happens when you shop small:
1. Small Businesses Give Back to the Community in more ways than one!
Not only do they employ the people who live in your community, but most also give back to local charities and non-profit organizations because they also want to help further the good work that's being done. Studies have even shown that when you buy from an independent, locally-owned business significantly more of your money is used to make purchases from other local businesses, service providers, and farms - win-win!
2. Customers get Better Service!
The owners live and breathe what they are doing, whether it's providing a service or selling items they think you'll love (or need). There is no one better suited to answer all your questions, explain how something works, and even share their personal experiences. Store owners have searched high & low to bring you the best of what they have to offer. You will get no better service than from a small business owner - ask away they'll love it!
3. Don't buy what someone else wants you to - It's all about Choices!
When a community has many independent businesses, it ensures you have a wide range of unique product choices. Store owners buy products based on their own interests and the needs of their local customers.
4. Buy it where you Try it!
Locally-owned businesses allow you to try on and try out items before you buy them, as well as provide information about the products. They are not just providing you with products for sale, but with their hard earned expertise. Please don't turn around and buy the item online after someone has answered all your questions and let you try it out! Eek!
There are too many reasons to list, but you're starting to get the idea here, right?! These amazing independent store owners are trying to support the community, while at the same time also supporting their own families. Nationally-owned chains aren't looking out for the local economy or the people who make up the community, they just aren't. They're too busy looking at their bottom line.
Right now every store owner in your town and beyond is busy making so many behind the scenes preparations for their customers to celebrate Small Business Saturday, and the entire Holiday season. There's a lot of hard work, dedication, love, sweat (and probably a few tears) going into these preparations - and it's all for you, the customer! Ultimately, it's all for the local community and how we want it shaped.
This weekend, and everyday, let's get out there and show them some love for all that they bring to our communities!
Shop Local. Eat Local. Love Local.
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