#shopsmall everyday

Last Saturday was Small Business Saturday and if you’re like me you received many reminders to #shopsmall.  American Express started Small Business Saturday 10 years ago. It falls the Saturday after Thanksgiving when many people are in full-blown holiday shopping mode.  While it is nice to have reminder to shop from smaller artisans/stores/retailers this time of the year, I think it is important to shop small year-round.  Don’t get me wrong I still order from Amazon, especially when I need a gift for the birthday party my son is attending in a few days or I’m pretty much out of diapers, but I do try to think ahead and order from small businesses and shop at local boutiques.

One of the reasons I shop from smaller artisans is because their product tends to be more unique.  Everyone starts small and when they do they are really passionate about what they are making.  This results in a product that is made with love and attention to every detail.  There is also a lot of pride when you produce something that has your name on it.  I always feel I am getting a quality product when I shop small because an artisan will only sell something that makes them smile.

I saw a statistic last week that small women-owned businesses employ 9.4 million workers and that is just women-owned businesses.  Keeping small business alive is what keeps these jobs. Think about that the next time you shop. I know large businesses employ more workers but the barista at Starbucks is very different from the barista at your local coffee shop.  The local shop probably has a lot more personality and that barista has a much higher chance of moving up the ranks and learning about running a business versus just making coffee. 

The next time you’re walking down the road or looking for a gift online, look a little further than the big shops.  By shopping small I guarantee you’ll get something you truly enjoy.

Happy Friday,

Julile