Small Business - Everyday!

Thanksgiving is a favorite holiday for many, a day of feasting and family, fun and lots of pie. Lots of folks like the idea of gathering together without worry over gifts and candy, decorations or donations, just a gathering for pleasure. There are also those who love the Thanksgiving holiday because it signifies the start of the giving season, the shop til you drop season, the boost in profits season.  Thanksgiving is the precursor to Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and now Small Business Saturday.

Good to remind ourselves of our local businesses, the bread and butter of our lovely area. Without the Small Business, our streets would be less colorful, our mileage much greater and our tempers shorter.  The Small Business Saturday movement offers a variation on the thought: Shop Local, Shop Often.  When we support our local merchants, we return approximately 60% of the money to our towns, our services are funded and we all benefit.

Southport and the surrounding towns are busy all summer long, the beaches attracting families to enjoy the sun and fun. The fall season gave us warm sunny days for being outdoors and enjoying the changing foliage. But, the winter holidays offer us a chance to enjoy our local shops and restaurants, to enjoy the hustle and bustle of shopping without the crowds (and chaos) and long lines. Being "locals" has its benefits. There is time to stop and read the back of the book before adding it to your pile.  There is time to find the perfect kitchen accessory, the ideal scarf and hat, or the perfect pet toy for your favorite pal. Local is your neighbor, your friend in business, supporting your town, providing exceptional personal service because they can.

Remember to support your local businesses everyday. Shop Local and be a part of the holiday spirit that pervades our town. Small Business Saturday can be expanded to Small Business Everyday for friendly, local personal sales and services. Help your local merchants show the same gain as Cyber Monday... increased sales by 18% over last year! Shop Early, Shop Local and remember Small Businesses support you everyday.