Small Business Saturday will be celebrating its TENTH anniversary this year on November 30. Of course, there are many ways in the area to participate and support our local retailers!
Local Small Business Saturday Events
Downtown Iowa City Small Business Saturday, Iowa City
Small Business Saturday in The District, Cedar Rapids
Boutique Bus Crawl, Swisher
Holiday Bazaar at The History Center, Cedar Rapids
Shop Small Vendor and Art Fair, Mount Vernon
There are also several stores hosting events:
Small Business Saturday with RePurpose It, Washington
Small Business Saturday with Simply ME Boutique, Tiffin
Small Business Saturday with Kae Apothecary, Mount Vernon
Small Business Saturday with The Downtown Dachshund, Ely
Home for the Holidays at Rust and Dust Salvage, Lisbon
Holiday Open House by Under a Tin Roof, Wellman
Ways to Support Small Businesses Year-Round
This shouldn’t be just a one-day-a-year event, however. There are so many ways to support small businesses this holiday season and beyond. Here are four easy ones.
1. Reduce Your Shopping at Big Box Stores
You don’t need to completely swear off chain retailers–just make a commitment to reduce your holiday shopping at those stores a certain amount in favor of small businesses
2. Bring a Friend or Two
Bring along a friend to your small business shopping day–two small business shoppers make a bigger impact than one! Also, sharing your favorite businesses with friends on social media is a great way to help increase visibility for shops who deserve it.
3. Plan for Long-Term Needs
Look to discover a small retailer you can frequent for other shopping and gifting needs throughout the year. Take mental note of places that you can come back to later, even after the holiday season.
4. Eat & Drink
Visit a local restaurant or coffee shop for a food break while you are out shopping. Mom-and-Pop cafes need your support, too!
Supporting local businesses has an enormous list of benefits, from the economy to the environment, so seek out ways to shift your shopping habits this holiday season and beyond. If you need some ideas, try some of our favorite local hidden treasures in the small towns around Iowa City!
What is your favorite local small business? Give them a shout-out!
