There’s something special about shopping locally. More often than not, the owner is on-site and warmly greets you as you walk in the door. If it’s your first time visiting, they’ll be curious to get to know you. If you’re a regular, they surely know your name and tastes. They might ask you how your family is doing or remember something you talked about last time you visited. There will be photos of the high school football team on the wall and other local city sports teams the business supports. There will be fliers on the counter for local events such as a craft show or upcoming community theater production. The clerks will be educated in their products and show them to you with pride and confidence. You’ll likely be offered a fresh cup of coffee while you browse or to follow the shop’s Facebook page for sales and special events like a “Sip and Paint” night or holiday walk. Your purchase will be dressed beautifully in a personalized bag. When you leave, you’ll want to come back because you found something unique that’s missing in today’s rushed world – a great customer experience.
Small Business Saturday, approaching Nov. 30, honors local, independent businesses and encourages people around the nation to “Shop Small.” Because shopping small always adds up to something big.
Small businesses contribute to the local economy and make up the unique character of communities and towns across America. In North Royalton, our small businesses are not only warm and inviting spots to visit, but they are also the drivers for our city’s continued success. Our small businesses contribute to charitable organizations and to the schools by way of cherished partnerships. Local restaurants may donate refreshments or raffle baskets for a school event, a small business owner may serve on a school committee, panel or focus group. They may visit a classroom for a special presentation to share their expertise. Shopping small supports local jobs, conserves tax dollars keeping money in our local economy and supports what our nation was built on – the American Dream. These are the folks who are truly vested. They chose North Royalton specifically to lay down their roots and that’s something to celebrate.
Many of North Royalton’s local businesses will be offering special events in honor of shopping small on Small Business Saturday – restaurants included (you’ll need a bite to eat after all that shopping!). Small businesses are North Royalton’s bread and butter – be sure to have a slice at your table.
By SARA MACHO HILL
Contributing Writer