As the holiday season kicks into high gear, we’re bombarded with endless deals, massive sales, and the allure of convenience from big-box stores and online giants. But amidst the hustle and bustle, there’s one day that reminds us to slow down and focus on something that truly matters: Small Business Saturday.
As a small business owner myself, this day holds a special place in my heart. Small Business Saturday is more than a shopping event; it’s a chance to celebrate and support the heartbeat of our communities. Every purchase you make from a small business fuels creativity, builds relationships, and strengthens the community around you.
Allow me to share three reasons why I believe passionately in shopping small!
3 Powerful Reasons to Shop Small
1. Keep Your Money Local
When you shop at big-box stores or online retail giants, most of the money you spend leaves your community. Large corporations distribute profits to shareholders or reinvest them in their global operations, with only a small fraction directly benefiting your local economy.
Small businesses, on the other hand, are deeply tied to the communities they serve. The money you spend with them often goes right back into your neighborhood—whether it’s paying wages for local employees, sponsoring youth sports teams, donating to local charities, or even shopping at other small businesses.
Think about it this way: every dollar you spend with a small business creates a ripple effect. Your purchase not only helps that business thrive but also strengthens the entire network of local vendors, artisans, and suppliers they rely on. Studies have shown that for every $100 spent at a small business, approximately $68 stays in the local economy. That’s a powerful impact.
For me as a family photographer, your investment in a session with me doesn’t just support my business. It helps me support other local suppliers, from the print shops I use to print your photos to the small shops where I source props or packaging. It allows me to give back to my community and continue creating work that celebrates the people and places we call home.
2. Give Unique, Thoughtful Gifts
One of the best things about shopping small is the variety of unique, one-of-a-kind gifts you can find. When you shop with big retailers, you’re often limited to mass-produced items that countless others will also give (or receive). Small businesses, however, bring a level of personalization and care that simply can’t be matched.
Whether you’re browsing a local boutique, commissioning a handmade piece of art, or booking a family photo session, shopping small allows you to give gifts that feel personal and meaningful. These are gifts that tell a story—gifts that your loved ones will treasure long after the holidays are over.
For example, a family photo session isn’t just a gift; it’s an opportunity to capture memories that will last a lifetime. I often hear from clients that their favorite part of receiving a session as a gift is how personal it feels. It’s not just about a material item—it’s about creating moments they can hold onto forever.
Similarly, when you shop from local artisans or makers, you’re giving something that has been crafted with love and care. Whether it’s a handcrafted piece of jewelry, a unique home decor item, or even a beautifully wrapped baked good, these gifts stand out because of the heart behind them.
This holiday season, challenge yourself to think outside the box. Instead of rushing to buy the latest gadget or trend, consider what might be truly meaningful to the person you’re shopping for. Chances are, a small business owner has exactly what you’re looking for—something they’ve poured their creativity and expertise into making.
3. Support Another Creator and Their Family
Behind every small business is a real person (or family) who has dedicated themselves to building something meaningful. When you shop small, you’re directly supporting their dream—and often, their livelihood.
As a family photographer, I can tell you firsthand how much every booking means. Each session I book is not just about keeping my business afloat; it’s about helping me provide for my family, spend more time doing what I love, and continue growing in my craft. Every dollar a client invests in me allows me to invest in better equipment, attend workshops to refine my skills, and create an even better experience for the families I work with.
For many small business owners, their work is more than just a job; it’s a reflection of their passion and creativity. By choosing to support them, you’re saying, “I see your hard work, and I value it.” That recognition means the world to small business owners—far more than it ever could to a large corporation.
Beyond that, your support often helps families in a direct and tangible way. You’re helping a parent pay for their child’s piano lessons, a young entrepreneur cover their college tuition, or a couple save for their dream home. It’s a personal connection that goes far deeper than the transaction itself.
How You Can Shop Small This Year
Shopping small doesn’t have to mean spending a fortune or making dramatic changes to your holiday shopping habits. Even small actions can make a big difference. Here are a few ideas to get started:
Purchase gift cards: If you’re unsure what to buy, gift cards to local businesses are a fantastic option. Whether it’s for a coffee shop, a boutique, or a service like photography, gift cards allow your loved ones to choose something they’ll truly enjoy.
Explore local markets: Many communities host holiday markets showcasing local artisans and vendors. These events are a treasure trove of unique, handmade goods and are a great way to connect with small business owners in your area.
Think experiences: Instead of giving a physical item, consider gifting an experience like a family photo session, a cooking class, or tickets to a local theater production. Experiences often create lasting memories and are a wonderful way to support small businesses.
Share the love: Even if you’re not in a position to shop, you can still support small businesses by sharing their work with others. Leave a positive review, tag them on social media, or recommend them to friends and family. Every little bit helps!
Start a Chain Reaction by Shopping Small
This Small Business Saturday, I encourage you to take a moment to think about where your dollars are going. Choosing to shop small isn’t just about finding great gifts—it’s about making a difference in your community, celebrating creativity, and supporting the people who pour their hearts into their work.
I will personally be shopping at these 3 small shops this year!
So, whether it’s booking a family photo session, grabbing a handmade item at your local market, or simply spreading the word about your favorite small business, know that your support matters. Together, we can make this holiday season one to remember—for all the right reasons.
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