Small Business Saturday is November 30. I love that this day has become so well-known and supported.American Express designated that the first Saturday, after Thanksgiving, would be Small Business Saturday a few years ago.They did this as the United States was experiencing a recession.The goal of Small Business Saturday is to shop local and support small businesses.
One thing to remember when you are shopping local, you may be paying a bit more, but you are supporting your community.You also find a lot more unique and creativity compared to big boxed stores.
I will admit that I tend to fall for the great deals that big brand names offer, instead of buying locally.This holiday season I am setting a goal for myself. I will purchase at least one to two items locally.Everyone else should set themselves a goal, to help support small businesses and the local community.
Here is a list of some small business and areas to shop at this holiday season.
Visit Downtown Ames and Campustown to support your local small businesses. Share joy, shop small, and shop all season long at your local small businesses.
HIGHLAND PARK NEIGHBORHOOD
Highland Park Neighborhood has gone through a lot of changes in the past few years and is a great place to shop and support locals! Grab a coffee at The Slow Down Coffee Co. Shop at Des Moines Mercantile, Art Terrarium, Collective, and many more shops. Make sure you grab dinner at Chuck’s Restaurant and a sweet treat at Hiland Bakery.
HISTORIC EAST VILLAGE
The East Village is a great place to start. Not only are there several shops such as Allspice for the culinary person, antiques, a place to pamper yourself at Salon Spa W, Raygun for some fun t-shirts, but there are also great places to eat while you shop.There is also Jett and Monkey’s Dog Shoppe for your furry critter on your list. Take a look at the complete list of shops, places to eat, and events that may be going on this holiday season.
BONUS! Mark your calendars for the Holiday Promenade that kicks off Friday, November 22, and continues every Friday through December 13.
HISTORIC VALLEY JUNCTION
Valley Junction is full of antiques, gifts & collectibles, jewelry, services, and specialty stores.You can purchase a bottle of wine from Wines of Iowa, or some unique gifts at Hinge.Not only are there several shops to shop at, but there are also great places to wine and dine. This is a great place to support locals all year round.
BONUS! Mark your calendars for Jingle in the Junction which kicks off Thursday, November 2, and continues every Thursday through December 19 (except Thanksgiving). Shop under the glow of over 125,000 holiday lights.
INDIANOLA DOWNTOWN
Shop small-town Indianola. The Indianola Square offers some great shops and restaurants.
INGERSOLL
The Ingersoll area is also a wonderful place to shop.They have some awesome restaurants and bakeries, such as Creme Cupcake, which make it even better. Make a stop at Preservation or get lost in Enchanted Mystical Boutique with fun gifts. You can spend the day walking up and down Ingersoll Avenue in Des Moines shopping and supporting locals.
MAINFRAME STUDIOS
The largest nonprofit creative workspace in the nation, located in the heart of downtown Des Moines. Shop several amazing artists’ goods and/or purchase gift certificates for classes and workshops at Mainframe Studios. Make sure you save the date for First Fridays! A monthly event that encourages the public to come visit and learn more.
SHOPS AT ROOSEVELT
The Shops on Roosevelt are located right off of 42nd Street near Roosevelt High School.There are several local, specialty shops including The Cheese Shop, the WORN Store, The Parlor DSM, The Juice Company, La Mie, and more.A lot of these places you can purchase gift certificates or make your own little gift basket using items from one or several of these stores. Don’t forget to catch a show at the Des Moines Playhouse or let your littles wiggle and play at JouJou Des Moines.
UPTOWN ANKENY
Uptown Ankeny has been working hard to create fun events and entertainment and revitalize this fun, unique area of town. There is some fun, local shops you should check out including Tweedle Dee’s, Strawberry Patch, Carmen’s Flowers, and more. Make sure to grab a pizza at the Leaning Tower of Pizza and cold brew from local brewery FireTrucker Brewery while you are there.
Val-Air Holiday Fair
Val-Air Ballroom; 301 Ashworth Road in West Des Moines
November 30 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Shopping small all year round is important but there is no better way to celebrate Small Business Saturday than with a bit of bonus fun with some of your favorite artists & fellow small biz owners. You can expect lots of the unusual vintage items you’ve come to love — from salt & pepper shaker plant pokes to food-themed pieces — along with some seasonal decor finds perfect for all of your holiday celebrations!
ETSY
Are you not really in the mood to get off your couch and get caught up in all of the people shopping? You can still support small businesses online. I love Etsy.I have purchased several things off Etsy as gifts and for myself.You can find about anything on Etsy and you can also have things customized if you like.Check out the link above and look around.
Why is it important to buy local? When you buy local you are doing for important things:
Supporting entrepreneurship
Building a strong community
Helping create local jobs in the community
Keeping money in the local economy
Spend your Black Friday cuddled up at home, digesting that wonderful turkey feast and go out to shop Saturday & Sunday to help your local community.
Erin is a reliable resource and stepping stone for women and families to find support and make connections within our community. She wants families to feel confident to reach out and ask for help and advice to get pointed in the right direction. She enjoys traveling and exploring with her two children in tow!
