As many of you know, I come from a small business family. My dad owns restaurants in northern Ohio, my grandmother owned a travel agency and I work for a small business, have this blog and my reading intervention business. When Small Business Saturday became a thing, I was ALL in. My friend and I had an annual tradition to go up to Frederick (THIS is my favorite shop there) and peruse the shops to support small. Since so many people are out of work or their salaries have decreased, I want to stress something very important– there are still ways to support small business that cost nothing. Of course, if you can support them financially, this is ideal, but if you still want to help but don’t have the money
Share a small business’ website to your social media.
People who don’t always realize how imperative social media shares are. Not only do they get businesses’ names in front of people, but people are way more likely to support a business that someone that they trust supports. Did you get fantastic takeout? Post a picture and tag the restaurant. How about a fabulous find at a local shop? Post the shop’s website to your page and sing its praises. Haven’t bought anything in a while but want to show your love? That’s even better! Share why you love the shop/restaurant/car mechanic/ etc. to your Facebook page and remember to tag them!
Write a positive review
Sing the business’ praises on Google Review, Yelp, Open Table or other go-to ratings. When I had to get new tires after an accident, the service was so fantastic that I took the time out of my day to write them a GLOWING review. They were beyond amazing (if you ever find yourself in Leesburg, VA, Hogan & Sons is 10/10) and I was happy to tell others about them.
Put small business products on your Christmas wish list
So, maybe you don’t have the money to support all the small businesses you want this year.. Add them to your wish list! Amazon has made more money than ever since Covid and is slowly but surely killing small business. Join me in skipping the Amazon wish list this year and support small!
Follow and Share Posts From Your Favorite Small Businesses
I know I’m going back to the social media thing but you might not realize what a huge deal it is. Choose a few small businesses that you can vouch for and like their page on Facebook, follow them on Instagram, etc. When something pops up that looks fun, share it or just share their page in general. I know they’ll appreciate the support so much!
Are you a small business owner? What has helped you that has cost nothing?
Happy Small Business Saturday!!
