Why to Shop Local This Saturday, from a Small Business Owner

small business

What started in 2010 by American Express as a way to help small businesses gain exposure and to inspire shoppers to shop in their community has grown into a $19.8 billion spending holiday.

What is this holiday, you may ask?

Nestled snuggly in between the corporate 4:00 a.m. craze that is Black Friday and the PJ-clad e-commerce madness of Cyber Monday sits the humble, sensible holiday that is known as Small Business Saturday. As a small business owner myself, I get giddy just thinking about it.

Why does shopping small matter?

I mean, Amazon is so darn convenient, right?!

Sure, it is. But let me ask, does Amazon sponsor our kiddo’s little league teams? Do they make donations to medical benefits in our community? Do they donate to our local non-profits in the form of time and/or money?

The first businesses to step up and step in are the very backbone of our community: our small businesses.

Cue the decked out storefronts, owner-operated cash registers, smiling faces, and unmatched customer service.

There is a sticker that often adorns small business packages and/or inserts that says, “When you buy from a small business, an actual person does a happy dance.” 

It’s true. We do! And with over 72,000 small businesses in North Dakota, there are a plethora of options for you to shop at on Saturday. Let’s note a few fan favorites in the Fargo-Moorhead/West Fargo area.

Local Small Businesses

Coffee

Obviously you’re going to want to get fueled up for the day. Ladybug Latte, Beans Coffee, and Thunder Coffee are all great options. From a handwritten note on your lid, to a donut topped drink, to a latte so pretty you’ll almost feel guilty drinking it — you can’t go wrong starting your day with one of these local faves!

North Dakota Made

Shopping local is one thing. But shopping local at a business that sells local products, now that gets bonus points.

Be sure to check out Sweet Dreams Confections, a mom-and-pop shop that has been in business for over 40 years! They guarantee to make your day sweeter with their homemade fudge and chocolates.

At Grateful Cratefulls you’ll find 30+ locally made lines. Be sure to watch for Small Business Saturday event specials — rumor has it mystery gift cards will be back this year!

Looking for a spa day? Try Honey B Soap Company or Real Good Bath & Body for bath bombs, soap, lip balm, and more!

Retail Therapy

There are no rules against treating yourself on Small Business Saturday. Say hi to Gunel at Mainstream Boutique or Ashley at Jade + Jasper. These two lovely ladies always have fun in store, and Small Business Saturday will be no exception!

And for cute kid’s clothing, try Vella Kids Boutique, Tootsie’s Children’s Boutique, and Kenzie + Co. Kids!

Small Business Saturday brings door prizes, samples, collaborations, giveaways, and more. It also brings community.

And just in case you need a technical reason to get out shopping, know that for every dollar you spend at small businesses almost 70 cents will stay right here in your local economy!

So, gather your crew and have fun this Small Business Saturday. We can’t wait to see you!

For more ideas on how to shop small this season, see the Fargo Mom Holiday Gift Guide: Unique Local Gifts in Fargo!

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Dani Gilseth
Dani is a North Dakota born, Class B raised, Wife, Mom and Business Owner. She calls West Fargo home with her husband Tristan and their three kiddos, Cash (2007), Keeley (2009), and Bode (2015). After reluctantly getting a dog in 2015, they've since added two more to their brood. Yes, three kids and three dogs. Their house is officially full. Dani discovered her (unexpected) dream job in 2018 when she founded and opened Grateful Cratefulls with her Mom and Aunt. In 2019 they founded the brand North Dakota KiND. Dani is the current VP of Fargo Givers, a group of inspiring Men and Women in the FM with a mission of doing good and giving back. Fun-Loving and Positive are words she uses to describe herself. Organized and On Time on the other hand ... not so much. Connect with Dani on Facebook and Instagram!

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