Top 10 Reasons to Support Small Businesses

The holidays are here, and so is the annual temptation to snag all the "doorbuster deals" from big international retailers. But before you load up your cart with those suspiciously cheap gadgets that may or may not survive until New Year's, let’s talk about something better: supporting small businesses.

Here’s my Top 10 list of why small businesses deserve your love this season.

10. Small businesses = fewer "assembly required" nightmares.

When you buy handcrafted items, they usually come fully assembled. No Allen wrench needed!

9. Customer service that actually feels… human.

You have a question? A real person answers. No robots, no being transferred "to another department," and definitely no “press 3 for an existential crisis.”

8. The gifts are so unique, people will think you’re a creative genius.

“Oh, you got this handmade scarf from where?!” says your cousin, as she side-eyes everyone else’s big-box gift cards.

7. You’re supporting someone's dream, not a billionaire’s yacht fund.

Your purchase could help pay for a kid’s dance class or soccer team, not Jeff Bezos’ next rocket.

6. Shorter lines, less elbowing for that last parking spot.

Shopping small often means skipping the Black Friday chaos—and the questionable driving tactics that come with it. (They're open Black Friday, too!)

5. Small businesses give back to the community.

You’re not just buying a gift; you’re investing in your local economy. (And maybe even that cool holiday lights display downtown.)

4. You might discover your new favorite go-to spot.

That cozy bookstore? The bakery with the life-changing cookies? Unique fashion boutique? Thank holiday shopping for the introduction.

3. No two items are exactly the same.

Forget cookie-cutter gifts. When you shop small, everything feels just a bit more personal—because it is.

2. You’ll be helping someone do a happy dance.

Every purchase makes a small business owner’s day (and sometimes, their whole year). Why wouldn’t you want to spread that kind of joy?

And the #1 reason to support small businesses this holiday season:

Your holiday shopping could be the story someone tells about how their business made it through the year.

This season, let’s put our dollars where they’ll make the biggest difference. Whether it’s shopping at your favorite local shop, ordering from an online artisan, or grabbing a gift card to a family-owned restaurant, every little bit counts.

So skip the stress, find some hidden gems, and let’s make this holiday season about community, connection, and creativity.

Tag your favorite small business in the comments—they deserve a shout-out!