Small Business Saturday Holiday Sales Success Paves Way

Thanksgiving brings family and friends together, but don't forget about Small Business Saturday to support local economies and communities. #ShopSmall #SmallBusinessSaturday

Thanksgiving is a time for turkey, stuffing, and gathering with family and friends to give thanks for all that we have. After the dishes are put away and the tryptophan naps are over, it's time to start thinking about holiday shopping and the deals that come with Black Friday sales.

But before you rush out to the big box stores, don't forget about Small Business Saturday. This day kicks off the holiday shopping season and is a crucial time for local small businesses. In Maryland, small businesses make up 99.5 percent of all business establishments and employ approximately 1.2 million people, making up nearly half of the state's workforce.

When you shop at small businesses, you're not only supporting your local economy, but you're also investing in your own community. Small businesses put a larger share of their revenue back into the local economy, with $68 out of every $100 staying local compared to only $43 from larger businesses.

This means more money for essential services like fire departments, parks and recreation, schools, and other community infrastructure. Small businesses also donate 250 percent more to local nonprofits and community causes than larger businesses, making a big impact on the community.

So this holiday season, and throughout the year, consider shopping small and supporting your local businesses. And don't forget to share your experiences on social media using #ShopSmall and #SmallBusinessSaturday to keep the momentum going. By supporting small businesses, you're not only getting unique and personalized gifts, but you're also investing in the vibrancy and prosperity of your community.