You’ve probably heard the term “shop small” over the last couple of years. Supporting small business became a necessity over the last decade as big businesses offered a level of convenience that sent mom and pop shops packing. Unfortunately, many of us have seen a local favorite shop shut down due to rent, expenses, or lack of business, but now we’re here to remind you why shopping small is a trend that’s here to stay.
On the bright side, some fresh statistics from google report that in the US, 46% of surveyed shoppers agreed that "I make a deliberate effort to shop at businesses that align with my values," and searches for "support local businesses" have grown globally by over 20,000% year over year. Beyond statistics, we have some pretty amazing reasons why you should take your shopping to your favorite small business this holiday season.
You should shop small because:
It’s 2020
2020 has been a difficult year for all of us, small businesses included. In just a span of months, the number of active business owners dropped 15% (from February to May). While retail giants like Amazon became the only option for necessities (like the rare and coveted toilet paper) your local “non essential” businesses took a hit. While many businesses have tried to pivot in the best way they can, your local artisan or boutique business could use the extra love this holiday season.
You’ll support your local economy
The best way to see positive change is when you invest in your own community. Shopping locally creates more jobs within your town, and it creates a stronger community bond. When it comes to Susan Hauser Designs, designer Susan is a Charleston artist, and while she relocated to Augusta last year, she maintains close ties with other small Charlestonian businesses. At the end of the day, local businesses tend to support other local artisans, so when you support your favorite boutique business, you’re more likely to create a chain reaction that benefits more small businesses than one.
Black Friday will operate a little differently this year
If you haven’t heard, the traditional blockbuster sales are going to look a little differently this year. Superstores have already announced that they will not be holding extended Black Friday hours this year due to the pandemic. Instead of crowds of people lining the block to get a good deal, ., most large retail chains are redirecting their customers to online shopping. Many of your local businesses will be participating in online Black Friday, Small Business Saturday, and Cyber Monday sales as well, so if you’re already not commuting to the nearest department store, spend some time browsing the websites of boutique businesses instead.
Shopping small is way more reliable this year
Have you started holiday shopping yet? If not, that’s ok (we haven’t either). But, if you plan to order online from Amazon or some other large online store, it’s important to note that you’re not alone. A reported 69% of Americans plan to shop online more than they did in previous years, and while this is definitely recommended by the CDC, this also means that there are likely going to be more delayed shipping orders and sold out items than there have been in previous years. Shopping small not only separates your online order from the masses, but it’s also far more likely that if there’s an issue with your order, you’ll have a real person answering emails and solving the problem in a timely manner. At Susan Hauser Designs, Susan and her daughter, Kendall personally answer all emails and website inquiries.
Quality is top of mind
When you shop small you’re supporting someone else’s passion. When the motive behind the craft is passion instead of money, you can rest assured that the artisan is proud of their work. In order to take pride in what you produce, you have to trust the quality of your product and personally guarantee every product that is created and sold.
You’ll support your friends and neighbors
If you’re lucky enough to have a small business-owning friend, take some time to support them this holiday season. Whether it’s buying a product or gift card from their store, or even sharing their business on social media, there are a variety of steps you can take to show your friends and neighbors that you care.
You’ll be able to give one-of-a-kind gifts
The beauty of local business is that their products are one of a kind. Instead of giving a gift that your loved one could find anywhere, shop small and surprise them with something that they would never be able to find in their hometown. For a truly unique gift, stop by the custom designs tab on our website to create something completely one-of-a-kind. For personal styling assistance, feel free to direct message Susan Hauser on Instagram @susanhauserdesigns, or by sending an email to susan@susanhauserdesigns.com.
