If Black Friday shopping does not appeal to you, try the next day for a more low-key holiday shopping day…. Small Business Saturday (SBS). Founded by American Express in 2010 to encourage patrons to shop local, SBS is nationally recognized — and shoppers have quickly made this day part of their holiday traditions. This “holiday” is getting bigger each year; and you do not have to wake at the crack of dawn to get the deals: most small businesses open around 9 or 10 a.m. Sleep in!
It seems like every community in Cincinnati has a “Main Street” with one-of-a-kind shops, restaurants, bed-and-breakfasts, hair salons, etc. It is important for neighbors to support these local businesses so their communities continue to be active and thrive for decades to come. Shopping small definitely offers quality service and products. Plus, the purchases help to pay wages and contribute to community charities and enhancement.
Small businesses may not be able to offer the extreme markdowns on special items that large retail chains do, but expect store wide deals, visits with Santa and his Elves and lots of holiday goodies to eat while you shop. On SBS, your shopping experience will be easy and enjoyable, not a warpath to that “must have” holiday gift for Jane or Johnny. Hopefully, you will find that unique gift or service for every person on your holiday shopping list!
Shop at some of my favorite local small businesses:
King Arthur’s Court Toys – Storewide Sale, 15% off everything in the store. Ends 11/27/16.
Game On Fitness – On 11/26 from 9-11am, purchase a $75 or more gift certificate and receive a FREE foam roller (a $25 value). Plus, new customers will be entered into a drawing for one month of FREE unlimited fitness.
Furniture and Cabinet Outlet – FREE delivery, FREE 12 month, no interest financing, and extra 10% off (with minimum purchase of $900).
Park + Vine – Join Park + Vine and other OTR businesses for Small Business Saturday Nov. 26! Enjoy complimentary baked goods and coffee from La Terza Artisan Coffee Roasterie from 10 a.m. to noon. The shop is open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Check in on Facebook, Instagram, and Yelp to help spread the word using #ShopSmall
So gather your best girlfriends for a fun #ShopSmall Saturday shopping trip! Buy some great gifts for a great cause. And maybe visit a local restaurant for lunch and cocktails….you need your strength for more shopping. For a list of small businesses is your area, visit ShopSmall.com.
About Ainslie:
Ainslie Gordon is a St. Louis, Missouri native and graduate of the University of Missouri’s Journalism School. Her career has focused on advertising, public relations and event planning. In 2011, Ainslie and her family moved to Cincinnati; and she became a stay-at-mom and founder of the blog, Modhousewife.
Additionally, she was a fashion/trends contributor on Fox 19 and Fox 2. Currently, Ainslie is the Marketing Director for Game On! Fitness. She is also a Girl Scout leader and enjoys volunteering throughout the community.
She lives with her husband and daughter in West Chester and loves all things Disney. You can find Ainslie on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Pinterest.
