Shop local this Saturday! #SmallBizSat

A recent Duct Tape Marketing blog post made me aware of Small Business Saturday taking place this Saturday. (how did I not know about this?) Small Business Saturday was created by AMEX OPEN and small business advocacy groups trying to encourage people to shop local (rather than at big chain stores) on Saturday, November 27th. Shopping local benefits both the overall economy, as well as your local community. Plus, it’s fun to get out and meet your neighbors. Here in Chicago, the organization Local First Chicago (I’m a member) is spreading the word about the importance of buying local this holiday season with Unwrap Chicago: Eat, Drink & Buy Local. In my Chicago neighborhood alone, there are a number of clothing, gift and pet boutiques with lots of holiday goodies. Gift certificates from neighborhood restaurants are also a great way to shop local. So why not take the opportunity on Saturday to skip the mall and take a stroll around your neighborhood. Many local shops and boutiques are hosting special holiday shopping events and parties, so keep an eye out in your local community. Shop small business – shop local!