Why Shopping Small on Small Business Saturday Matters

At Gritty Gal Marketing, we’re all about supporting local businesses, artisans, and the incredible people behind them. It’s personal for us—my dad owned a small business most of my life, so I know firsthand how every purchase can directly impact a family’s livelihood, dreams, and future. There’s nothing quite like knowing your dollars are fueling someone’s passion and helping them put food on their table. That’s why Small Business Saturday holds a special place in our hearts. Let’s talk about why shopping small is such a big deal—not just for your community but for your marketing strategy, too!

The Ripple Effect of Shopping Small

When you spend $100 at a local business, approximately $48 stays within your community. In contrast, the same amount spent at a big-box store keeps only $14 local. That's a significant difference!

By choosing to shop small, you're fueling local economies, creating jobs, and fostering a vibrant community where families thrive, dreams are built, and neighbors come together to support one another.

Small Businesses: The Unsung Heroes of the Economy

Small businesses aren’t just part of the economy—they are the economy.

In fact, 99.9% of American businesses are small, and there are a staggering 33,185,550 small businesses across the U.S. They employ 61.7 million people, accounting for 46.4% of private-sector employees. But their impact doesn’t stop there. From 1995 to 2021, small businesses created 17.3 million net new jobs, making up 62.7% of net jobs created during that time.

They’re driving growth, sparking innovation, and keeping our communities thriving—all while facing challenges that bigger corporations often don’t. Supporting small businesses isn’t just a nice gesture; it’s a critical investment in the future of our economy.

More Than Just a Transaction

Shopping at local businesses offers a personalized experience that big retailers can't match. Local shop owners often know their customers by name, offer tailored recommendations, and create a sense of community. Heck, I even have some of my favorite business owners' cell phone numbers—I’ll send them pictures for inspiration for new products, and they’ll text me back with updates like, “Hey, we just got this in and thought of you!” That level of care and connection is something you just don’t get with a generic email from a big-box store.

Plus, small businesses donate 250% more than large businesses to local causes, supporting schools, charities, and events that make our neighborhoods thrive. Us Gritty Gals know how important it is to give back—it’s part of who we are. So why not support the businesses that are just as passionate about building up your community as you are?

Keeping Your Community Unique

Small businesses are what make your community stand out. They bring character, creativity, and a personal touch that chain stores just can’t replicate.

Whether it’s the quirky gift shop with one-of-a-kind finds or the local restaurant serving your favorite comfort food recipe passed down for generations, these businesses add the charm and individuality that make your town feel like home. When you shop small, you’re preserving that uniqueness and ensuring the stories behind these businesses continue to thrive.

It’s about keeping your community’s identity alive and well.

Join the Movement

This Small Business Saturday, let's make a conscious effort to support the businesses that make our communities unique. We get it—shopping online, in your sweatpants, from the comfort of your couch, is easy (and tempting). But here’s the thing: when you shop local, you’re doing more than buying a product—you’re investing in your neighbors, your community, and the local economy.

Whether it's grabbing a coffee from the neighborhood café, picking up a gift from a local artisan, or dining at a family-owned restaurant, your choices matter.

Remember, shopping small isn't just about spending money; it's about investing in the people and places that make our communities special. So, let's show our local businesses some love—they've earned it!

Happy Small Business Saturday!