Shop & Support Local

Grand Rapids, Mich (WOTV) - We all love Black Friday and Cyber Monday, the well-known shopping days that benefit big-box stores and online retailers (and your wallet). But did you know, for the past several years now, communities also have hosted Small Business Saturday the day after Black Friday. Local shops and restaurants offer specials and people shop locally at stores in their communities. What a great way to get out in your community, see people, and patronize the local shopping scene!

Maybe you’ll see this post after November 24 but that’s okay!  These holidays, when shopping locally, you'll find bargains and likely one-of-a-kind gift items that chain stores don't carry. And isn't it easier to get into the holiday spirit when you're face to face with a neighbor or friend at a unique local shop than with your computer scouring cyberspace?

Perhaps most important, buying local keeps dollars in your community. The purchase price benefits a business owner who lives, works, and plays where you do. It enhances the health of the business and your community at large. It's hard for local businesses to compete with big-box stores and if you don't support them, you just might lose those small shops that contribute to your community's character. If you pay sales tax, those dollars also benefit your community—be it schools, roads, parks ....

You get the idea. Shop locally on Small Business Saturday, and, better yet, buy local all year-round. You'll help your neighbors, your community, and yourself.

Content in part provided by Credit Union National Association. All topics meant for informational use and not to be construed as legal advice. Consult your attorney for legal matters related to your finances.