Josh Elledge - Chief Executive Angel
On the Saturday between Black Friday and Cyber Monday, there is the “younger brother” of special shopping days: Small Business Saturday. Although it's only been around since 2010, this event has grown over the years. On this day,consumers are encouraged to “Shop Small”, and local, in support of the small businesses in their community.
Finding participating businesses:
Since small businesses usually don't have big marketing budgets, finding ones that are participating in Small Business Saturday takes more effort than finding out about Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales. To find establishments in your area that are participating, you can try the map locator on theShop Small website (shopsmall.com). We also highly recommend checking out the business' webpage and Facebook page, following them on Twitter, or even using the good old-fashioned telephone, and giving them a call.
What kind of savings might you see?
Because we're talking small businesses, what you'll find will be individualized by the business. As such, the savings and offers will vary widely, and can make for some real “treasure hunting” fun. As you search for that perfect, unique gift, you'll find savings on a wide variety of businesses and services. For example, you'll find places such as locally owned restaurants, fitness clubs, home services, and specialty shops participating. Taking advantage of promotions at these type of establishments can yield substantial savings on needed services, or gifts that go beyond just buying the latest gadget everyone is getting.
In addition to the savings small businesses will be offering, American Express (the starter and supporter of Small Business Saturday) is givingcard credit to Small Business Saturday shoppers. Simply register any eligible American Express card; then use that registered card on November 29 to spend $10 or more (in a single, in-store transaction) at a business registered as participating in Small Business Saturday. Within 90 days, you'll receive a statement credit for $10. Best of all,you can do this up to 3 times ““ for $30 in free stuff!Registration is already open, but limited. Enrollment will remain open until 11:59:59 p.m. MST on November 29, 2014, unless the offer registration limit is reached sooner. To find businesses in your community that are registered and participating, check theSmall Business Saturday Shop Small Map. To enroll, or to read the specific terms and conditions, go toShopSmall.com.
The joy of Small Business Saturday
There is something joyful about shopping a local business on Small Business Saturday. The more relaxed pace, the holiday décor many will have, and the comfort of fewer crowds makes for a great way to either kick off your holiday shopping, or decompress from participating in Black Friday the day before.
Of course, it is important to shop small, local businesses year round, as doing so keeps money flowing in a community. Small businesses that are able to turn a profit can expand, hire more employees, and create an environment of opportunity and community pride. But turning out to support your local businesses on this day, in particular, is not only a great way to save ““ it's also a great way to be an encouragement to small businesses, their owners, and their employees.
