Sandwiched between Black Friday and Cyber Monday, Small Business Saturday is upon us today and area shop owners are grateful for the shopping holiday — first observed nationally in 2010.
“Small businesses rely on return customers to flourish. Small Business Saturday forces customers to really think about where their money is going,” said Bridget Benson, office manager at The Cutting Room Boutique, in the Seneca Center on Beechurst Avenue.
“We bring extra accessories. That way anyone can find a gift that fits their budget. We carry dressy to casual clothing. We carry unique and interesting pieces. We also carry jewelry, scarves, gloves, hats and handbags. Gift certificates are also very popular.”
Many area businesses are getting in on the action, offering special deals. For instance, those shopping at Poppy & Daisy, a Korean skin care and cosmetics retail beauty store on Fayette Street, will receive a free gift card if they spend $25 or more.
And those who spend $50 at any downtown business may be entered into a drawing to win one of four gift baskets, thanks to Main Street Morgantown.
From 10 a.m.-1 p.m. today, Mr. and Mrs. Claus will be at the nonprofit’s office, at 201 High St., to take pictures with children, who will also receive a free book. And there will be a wreath decorating contest. Pick up ballots from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. today at Arts Monongahela.
The contest runs through Dec. 9. Drop off completed ballots at Arts Monongahela by 4 p.m. today or at Tanner’s Alley Leather Design Studio or Monongalia Arts Center by 4 p.m. Dec. 10.
There’s also free parking, compliments of the Morgantown Parking Authority, through 8 a.m. Monday.
“We decorated our shop with holiday quilts and
projects,” said Peggy Ellwood, owner of Country Roads Quilt Shop, also at the Seneca Center. “We use social media, radio commercials and print ads to advertise our shop’s Small Business Saturday specials.”
Gift cards are one of the shop’s best sellers.
“I think it is really important to remind people to support their local small business,” she said. “Small businesses are owned and operated by members of our community. They also employ members of our community.”
She and Benson both pointed out that choosing to buy local has its perks.
“I think people love to come into a local business and feel invited and welcome. When you are treated well, you will come back. That is what we try to do,” Ellwood said.
“Small businesses can give you a more personal shopping experience,” Benson said. “To me, this is very important. A personal shopping experience is what will make a lasting relationship. If you are looking for something and can’t find it, the customer will get discouraged, but if they have the option to ask for help from someone who really wants them to have what they are looking for, they will be less discouraged.
“I love how small businesses will band together this time of year. Small Business Saturday brings many small businesses together, whether it’s to share advertising or giving recommendations. And obviously, I love helping someone find a great gift.”
