Tucked between mammoth national sales events Black Friday and Cyber Monday is Small Business Saturday® — a day to celebrate and support our small businesses and all they do for our community. Let’s come together this holiday season for our independent merchants on Saturday, November 25th, to thank them for working hard to keep our local economy flourishing.
Small Business Saturday® was originally founded by American Express in 2010 to encourage buyers to support small businesses after the economic slump we experienced from 2007–2009. In 2011, the U.S. Senate joined the cause by passing a resolution supporting Small Business Saturday®. The Small Business Association (SBA) officially co-sponsored this annual initiative, which has since grown to include all 50 states.
For small business owners, their business is more than just a business — it’s an extension of who they are. When you flip through the pages of our Marple Friends & Neighbors magazine, you see all our hometown Sponsors who are not only a large part of our daily lives but big supporters of our community causes and our school fundraisers. These business owners are always the first to thank the community for their patronage, so take the time to use your holiday dollars this season to ensure their doors stay open for years to come.
Before you buy big, think small. Remember those businesses who are always there to sponsor and support our local sports teams and charity events. How many times have you seen local restaurants donate food? Or hair salons, gift shops and dance studios donate baskets of goods and services? Eric Fante, owner of Fante Flooring said that what sets them apart from the big box stores is his approach and attention to detail, which he takes very seriously. “I sleep better knowing a job went smoothly,” said Eric. “Many customers become friends, so I’m elated to see them happy with the finished product.” Eric also employs sub-contractors that have worked for him for over 15 years. “I thank them every day because they help keep my business alive,” he said proudly.
Small businesses are the backbone of our community. When you shop local, you support the entrepreneurial spirit, driving our economic prosperity and keeping our friends and neighbors employed. Shopping local means that businesses can grow and hire more employees. In fact, the Small Business Association (SBA) says that across the United States, small businesses account for over 64% of new jobs created each year.
Local businesses like Jacquette’s Bakery have had roots in Marple for over 40 years and the Marple community has always been at the heart of the business. Owner Dennis Jacquette said he is proud of the connections he’s been able to build with his customers.“I have families that have grown up on our baked goods whose children are now my customers,” he said. Don’t forget our friends at Jacquette’s Bakery when planning your holiday dessert menus this season.
And if you’re looking to add some warmth to your home this winter with a cozy fireplace, take a ride over to Scott’s Fireplace Products. Unlike many large retail stores, Scott’s Fireplace Products has its own team of installers and service technicians. This personal approach and attention to quality service is something that owners Scott and Ray Magness take very seriously.
Sure, the deals and steals that flood our mailboxes and social media feeds can be awfully tempting, but nothing beats the feeling of walking into your local gift shop where you’re greeted by name. That level of customer service is what makes shopping local so special. Bernadette Dezii, owner of Bernadette’s Jewelry and Gifts in Broomall treats her customers like friends. “Many people are looking for that personal touch and human interaction,” said Bernadette. “I enjoy helping customers pick out unique gifts that you won’t find anywhere else.”
’Tis the season to spread holiday cheer and offer good tidings to all, including our local small businesses. Make a difference and commit this year by choosing to shop local instead of the big retailers. Put your local bakery, restaurant, coffee shop, gift boutique and neighborhood stores at the top of your gift-giving list. Let’s ensure that our Marple Friends & Neighbors business owners and Sponsors receive the best gift of all: your loyalty.