Greater Lafayette Commerce is encouraging residents to support local businesses by “shopping small” on Small Business Saturday, taking place Nov. 30.
Small Business Saturday is part of a nationwide initiative to highlight the importance of small businesses to the community. Since its inception by American Express in 2010 and its official sponsorship by the Small Business Administration in 2011, Small Business Saturday has become a key date in the retail calendar, coinciding with one of the busiest shopping periods of the year.”
This Saturday, we encourage everyone to shop small and support the local businesses that makevour community unique,” states Tony Roswarski, Mayor of the City of Lafayette. “By shopping locally, you’re not only finding one-of-a-kind gifts, but you’re also helping to strengthen our local economy and create jobs. Let’s come together this holiday season to celebrate the heart of our community this Shop Small Saturday!”
Downtown Lafayette businesses will be offering exclusive deals and activities throughout the day. As a bonus, many downtown stores will be offering complimentary punch and champagne as shoppers browse through their holiday selections.
In addition, the Downtown Lafayette Business Owners Association (DLBOA) will be hosting a scavenger hunt. Participants who visit at least 12 downtown businesses will receive a small prize and be entered into a drawing for a grand prize.
“Shop Small Saturday is a powerful reminder of how much our Downtown Lafayette businesses depend on the support of their community,” said Nolan Willhite, president of DLBOA and owner of Flora Candle Co. “While this single day makes a big impact, it’s the choices we make all year—stopping by a local shop, dining at a family-owned restaurant, or supporting downtown events—these are the things that truly keep our small businesses thriving and our downtown vibrant.”
As part of Shop Small Saturday, Sunshine Yoga will host a mini market featuring micro-retailers, food vendors and local bakers. Flora Candle Co. will offer live candle-making demonstrations throughout the day. Plus, Every’s Ice Cream will host a pop-up at Two Tulips Boutique.
For those seeking promotions, Main Street Books will be giving away travel mugs with purchases of $50 or more and offering 10 percent off all purchases over $20. Also, shoppers can enjoy 20 percent off retail items at Essentially Aqua.
“Small Business Saturday is the perfect opportunity to discover all that Greater Lafayette has to offer. Make a night of it—grab dinner at a local restaurant and enjoy some holiday shopping at our downtown boutiques. It’s a fun and easy way to support our local businesses,” said Scott Walker, president and CEO of Greater Lafayette Commerce. “We encourage everyone to shop locally—not just this Saturday, but throughout the year.”
Beyond downtown, businesses in West Lafayette and across the region will also be participating in Shop Small Saturday. From coffee shops and bars to eateries and boutiques, our community is home to a range of businesses that rely on local support to grow and sustain their operations. Wherever you go, there are plenty of ways to shop small. Click here to explore participating businesses and plan your shopping route.
