Embracing small business Saturday: Why shopping local matters for our communities

As November begins, so does the busiest shopping season of the year.

We’re familiar with Black Friday and Cyber Monday, but let’s not overlook Small Business Saturday (Nov. 30) – a day dedicated to supporting the businesses that keep our communities vibrant and unique.

On this day, shop small and make an impact close to home by supporting the shops, services, and makers in our own backyards.

Rural and local businesses face unique pressures. They compete not only with the convenience of online shopping but also with the often-lower prices offered by big-box stores. While saving a few dollars might be tempting, supporting local businesses offers value that goes beyond the bottom line. Local shops offer jobs, character and a sense of shared community; and each of us has a role to play in keeping our local economies thriving.

Read the full article here.