Nov. 23—Thanksgiving is usually associated with bountiful feasts and family gatherings, but for many, it's also a reminder that bargain-hunting season is here.
Many customers focus on the deals they can find on Black Friday and Cyber Monday, especially as online shopping continues to grow. But nestled between the two shopping days is Small Business Saturday, and it means a bit more to local shop owners.
Manic Snail Owner Dana Ekstrum said community members will find that small businesses offer a more immersive experience.
"For a lot of people, the holidays are a time of nostalgia," she said. "You don't get that nostalgia from a big box store or from shopping online. You get that from supporting local businesses and enjoying the sights and smells and sounds of a curated selection and an immersive experience."
According to a report from the U.S. Census Bureau and the Department of Commerce, e-commerce sales have grown from 15.1% of total sales in the first quarter of 2023 to 15.6% in the third quarter.
Ekstrum said many people don't realize that small retail businesses do most of their yearly sales during the holiday season.
"So especially for those businesses that you want to see survive, as you're spending those dollars for the holiday season, definitely prioritize spending them locally because it may be what allows that business to survive into the next year and beyond."
Lucky Tiger Owner Amy Heath said small businesses offer a unique community experience for the holiday season.
"On Black Friday, we have our yearly pajama party where if you wear your pajamas, you get 25% off, and then we'll have a DJ on Small Business Saturday and coffee and donuts," she said.
Heath said shopping locally gives customers a chance to invest in the community.
"You get to talk to the owner, you know, and I can help you," she said. "I can costume you, I can help you accessorize and style your outfits."
Small business owners gain a sense of pride when decorating their spaces for customers to shop in.
"You'll find your small business owners really care about the community, and about their customers, and about giving back," Ekstrum said.