In celebration of Small Business Saturday, we want to share some little gestures that can make a big impact on the heart of our communities — the small businesses that give our neighborhoods character and charm and identity. The best part? You don’t need a huge budget to be a local cheerleader. Here are some no- or low-cost ways to show your love and boost local businesses this holiday season.
1. Social Media Engagement
One of the simplest and most effective ways to support local businesses is through social media. Follow, share and engage with their pages. Your interactions increase their visibility and reach, potentially connecting them with new customers. Remember, you might not be in need of their products right now, but someone in your network might be. Involve your friends and family by inviting them to like and follow local business pages. Your recommendation might lead to their next loyal customer.
2. Participate in Contests and Giveaways
Many small businesses host contests or giveaways during the holiday season. Participate in these events; it’s often as simple as “share this post” or “comment below.” Your participation not only increases your chances of winning a free local gift for yourself or a loved one, but also boosts visibility of that small business to others.
3. Sign up for Newsletters
Not on social media? Make sure to sign up for these businesses’ newsletters. It’s a direct line of communication that keeps you informed about special offers, events and updates. It’s a small action that keeps you in the loop and supports the business.
4. Google Reviews Matter
Writing a review on Google might seem like a minor gesture, but for small businesses, it’s a game-changer. Positive reviews build a business’s online reputation and attract more customers. Take a moment to share a positive experience you had with the business this past year. Remember, customer reviews are not just a boost for business; they are morale boosters for small business owners, providing encouragement during this hectic time of year.
5. Buy Gift Certificates, Memberships and Subscriptions
For businesses that might not have products or services available this time of year, such as farms and outdoor attractions, consider purchasing gift certificates, memberships or subscriptions. This not only provides them with crucial off-season income but also helps them make investments to grow their business next year.
6. Support Events Hosted by Small Businesses
Your presence is invaluable and means a lot to business owners and organizations who pour time and heart into planning. In Happy Valley, there’s no shortage of seasonal events, such as small business crawls, open houses, maker markets and more.
Before the event, take a moment to respond positively to the events on social media; it significantly boosts their visibility. Your interaction signals to Facebook’s algorithm that people are interested, increasing the likelihood that the event will be promoted to a broader audience. Your simple click can make a big difference.
At the event, even if you don’t find something to buy, your attendance makes a difference. Capture moments with photos and share them on social media. Your active participation encourages others to join in the fun.
Holiday Market Days at Rooted Farmstead
We invite you to join us for Rooted Farmstead’s Holiday Market Days on Saturdays, Nov. 25, Dec. 2, Dec. 9 and Dec. 16, where you can support local small businesses with a lot of heart. It’s a chance to explore nature-forward gifts and decor, shop local vendors, enjoy delicious food and beverages and soak in the holiday spirit — all while supporting the small businesses that bring Happy Valley to life.
Christie Holloway is the owner of Rooted Farmstead, a flower farm and agritourism destination at 138 Scott Avenue, Bellefonte.
