Charlotte Celebrates Local Business on “Shop Small Saturday”
In the heart of Charlotte, a buzzing scene unfolded this past weekend as the community came together to support their local entrepreneurs during the much-anticipated “Shop Small Saturday”. From the sweet aroma of homemade candles to the vibrant colors of handmade crafts, the atmosphere was electric with excitement and camaraderie.
Local Entrepreneurs Thrive
Behind the booth of Queen and Cotton Charlotte, employee Trent Thurston couldn’t help but smile as he witnessed the positive energy of the crowd. “To see all these people supporting small businesses versus shopping online or at big-box stores. It means a lot to people who are trying to start their own business,” he shared enthusiastically. His words echoed a sentiment many local businesses felt as shoppers flocked to their stalls.
Right next door, Brett Tempest of Gather Ye Honey was equally thrilled with the turnout. “I think the response from the customers that came out, it’s been really strong today,” he remarked. “It shows that Charlotte is a city that cares about small businesses, too.” These comments highlight a broader trend where community members consciously choose to uplift their local economy.
Celebrating Self-Care and Craft
Among the participating businesses was Melted Moods, owned by Bria Smith. This self-care company, which features everything from soothing relaxation candles to comfy loungewear, marked its second year participating in “Shop Small Saturday.” Last year, Bria proudly reported earning over $1,000 in a single day, a testament to the loyal support from the residents of Charlotte.
“I love connecting with my customers personally,” Bria said with a warm smile. “It’s not just about selling products, it’s about building relationships.” Her passion shines through, making her booth a must-visit spot for attendees looking for unique, high-quality items to pamper themselves or gift to loved ones.
The Bigger Picture
The enthusiasm from the local community adds up to something much bigger. As noted by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, there are an impressive 33.2 million small businesses operating across the United States, comprising about 99% of all businesses and contributing approximately 44% to the country’s economy. This statistic underscores just how vital small businesses are to the fabric of the American economy.
Commerce officials indicate that when shoppers have the choice, many wholeheartedly prefer to support their local shops over large retailers. This year’s “Shop Small Saturday” reaffirmed that belief, with record numbers of folks visiting local vendors, chatting with owners, and walking away with one-of-a-kind purchases.
A Year-Round Commitment
Community members in Charlotte are not waiting for special dates on the calendar to support their local businesses. The growing trend shows that many residents are committed to shopping small year-round, making a conscious effort to discover hidden gems in their neighborhoods or at local markets.
As the holiday season approaches, it’s important to remember the impact of choosing local over big-box shopping. Every purchase makes a difference, helping small businesses flourish and keep the community vibrant. If you want to stay connected and get involved in more local events, consider downloading the app that keeps you in tune with live happenings, pre-sales, and member-only contests!
Final Thoughts
Charlotte’s “Shop Small Saturday” was more than just a shopping event; it was a heartfelt celebration of community spirit and entrepreneurial endeavor. Whether you popped in for a last-minute holiday gift or simply to browse, your presence was felt and appreciated by all these inspiring small business owners. So, let’s keep the momentum going and make it a point to support our local shops—not just on special days, but every day of the year!
