Today is Small Business Saturday

The food coma has worn off and your inbox is crowded with Cyber Monday specials trying to encroach on the fervor of Black Friday. But wait - in between lies a smaller, saner shopping phenomenon.

Welcome to Small Business Saturday.

Today, people across the country are invited (by American Express, actually) to support local businesses in their communities.

While the small businesses in town often offer unique gift ideas, friendly customer service and expertise that chain and big box stores do not, there are more reasons to shop small.

First, the money you spend in your community supports your neighbors – people you know who live in your town instead of corporations.

Second, your money gets reinvested in your town, helping to support other local businesses, schools and infrastructure. According to the U.S. resolution designating the first Small Business Saturday, “For every $100 spent in local independent stores, $68 returns to the community through local payroll, taxes and other expenditures.”

Though you may already be aware of some, American Express’ Shop Small site offers a map to show you the small businesses in town.  

Many local businesses are offering discounts and specials on Small Business Saturday, just as big retailers do. Check their websites and Facebook pages for more information.

South Windsor Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Shari Fiveash said that the chamber promotes small business all year long with its Buy Local Strengthen Our Community campaign. 

“We always have a special push at our annual meeting in October since we are heading into the holiday season. We want to remind people that small business Saturday is only one day, but Buy Local is all year long!” Fiveash said.

On Facebook, some residents have offered Floral Expressions, Copper & Birch, Sugarbelle, Crandall and Daughter, Julie's Barks and Bubbles, Jem's Gardens and Leaps & Bones as great local stores.

Patch readers, you’re the local experts. Tell us in the comments where you found great gifts!