Small Business Saturday, a movement launched in 2010 by American Express, celebrates these sentiments and the bonds local retailers make that keep local economies strong. The day is heralded throughout the country on the Saturday after Thanksgiving, which falls this year on Nov. 24.
Dozens of small businesses dot North Royalton’s landscape, from home goods stores and giftshops to beauty salons to restaurants to dance and fitness studios to health and wellness stores to auto mechanics, machining and landscape companies and every service in between. In celebration of “shopping small,” many merchants will have special sales on Small Business Saturday that shoppers can learn about both in-store and on their social networking sites.
If Caterina Calabretta doesn’t open her shop at 10 a.m. on the dot, concerned customers will call the Wallings Road business owner asking if she’s alright.
Calabretta, a warm, petite woman of Italian descent, has been a staple in the community for close to 30 years, opening Caterina’s Fine Jewelry & Gifts at 5160 Wallings Road in 1989. She’s the sole employee and was the first jewelry store to open in North Royalton.
It’s not unusual to walk into her cozy shop and see patrons perched on stools, drinking coffee and conversing closely with Calabretta, who views her work as a ministry and is known for telling everyone to have a blessed day.
Shopping locally also gives one a sense of family as these shopkeepers may also be your neighbors and friends.
“I’ve lived here most of my life,” said Optometrist Jennifer Mentessi and Owner of Distinctive Eyewear, a business at 5690 Wallings Road, provides vision services and frames like safety glasses, sports goggles, sunglasses and traditional eyeglasses.
She admits staff must work harder to stay top-of-mind for customers, who are living in a world of big-box vision chains and hip sites like Warby Parker that feature virtual try-on tools, no-questions-asked return policies and crafty taglines, like that of BonLook.com, “your online destination for stylish and affordable prescription eyewear.”
“Where we really shine is with our services and the products we sell,” Mentessi said. “Yes, there are big-box vision retailers selling two for $40 frames, but you get what you pay for.”
“I love working with the community and serving my community,” Mentessi said. “My kids go to the schools and I love the family feeling here.”
Local businesses, like those nestled in North Royalton, and the people who shop them, are fully aware that they are just minutes away from neighboring big-box retailers, but it’s local business owners’ dedication to and knowledge of their craft that sets them apart from crowded hustle-bustle store aisles and the click-y world of online shopping.
“Being a small business lets us connect with our customers and the community. This Small Business Saturday we’re donating 2% of all sales to North Royalton Charities John Owens Adventure and Rise in Love. Also, all customers will earn a $10 December Reward for any purchase $30 or more and we have some great product sampling, giveaways and demonstrations from Marley Sophia and Nordic Naturals. We’re really looking forward to it,” said Mike Ventresca, owner of Vital Choice Health Store located at 9243 Sprague Road, North Royalton.
Founded in 1974, Goldsmith Jewelers, Inc. at 12861 State Road, North Royalton has a family tradition of quality and service. It began primarily as a jewelry manufacturer and has grown into a fine jewelry retail store specializing in diamond engagement rings.
“We invite our customers, family and friends to stop in on Saturday, November 24, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. to see all of the new pieces we have stocked and ready to go for the Christmas season,” said Kurt, Goldsmith Jewelers owner.
Tazza Glass, located at 14232 Bennett Road, is a unique shop offering handmade glown glass gift items. Owner Mike Grau said, “My shop will be open on November 24, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Come in an watch as I create one-of-a-kind glass art.”
Covenant Books and Gifts at 12801 State Road, North Royalton, will alsobe participating in Small Business Saturday. Owner Mary Lou Mallinak says, “Covenant has a large selection of gifts for all your Christmas needs, from nativities and decorations to cards, music and books. Please join us on Small Business Saturday for coffee, bakery, and giveaways and take advantage of our all day mystery sale off your entire purchase.”
“Vibe Salon, 12754 Royalton Road, has all your hair care products. “We are offering a special Cash & Carry offer for Small Business Saturday, November 24 – Ten percent off all products if you pay with cash. Then on Friday, November 30, from 6-8 p.m., kick off the holiday season with us at Vibe Salon’s Sip & Shop. There will be lots of specialty vendors, lite bites and sips…. a little something for everyone,” say co-owners Kim and Andrea.
“Supporting local businesses gives you a warm feeling,” said Maria Magnelli, executive director of the North Royalton Chamber of Commerce. “When shopping at a locally-owned store, or choosing a local restaurant when dining out, you are helping to keep our local economy strong and you are helping the generous merchants who are called upon throughout the year to sponsor or donate to many worthwhile causes.”
Those feelings of connectedness and pride are really the hallmark of Small Business Saturday.
By SARA MACHO HILL
Contributing Writer