Find bargains and help your community during Small Business Saturday

From a favorite restaurant for a celebratory dinner, the bookstore that always delivers on binge-worthy reads to the boutique with perfect gifts — independent, local shops and restaurants help make New Orleans unique. On Saturday (Nov. 25), StayLocal and its member businesses — independent, local shops, restaurants and seasonal markets — will celebrate Small Business Saturday. Small Business Saturday is a national event that encourages consumers to shop locally and support small businesses in their communities. The day falls between Black Friday and Cyber Monday, serving as a reminder to shoppers to prioritize their local economy and support the small businesses that make their community thrive. In New Orleans, StayLocal is a nonprofit organization that works year-round to support and promote independent, locally-owned businesses. They provide resources, education, and advocacy for small businesses in the Greater New Orleans area. Small Business Saturday is just one of the many events and initiatives that StayLocal organizes to promote the local economy. Participating in Small Business Saturday is a win-win situation for shoppers and the community alike. By shopping locally, consumers can find unique and one-of-a-kind items while supporting the local economy. Small businesses play a vital role in creating jobs, fostering entrepreneurship, and preserving the distinct character of a community. When shoppers choose to support local businesses, they are helping to nurture and sustain their community's growth and prosperity. Shopping locally also has a positive impact on the environment. By reducing the need for long-distance transportation, shopping at local businesses helps to decrease emissions and lessen the carbon footprint. Supporting local businesses also reduces packaging waste and promotes sustainable practices. Small Business Saturday is not just about shopping; it's also about fostering a sense of community and connection. Many local businesses rely on face-to-face interactions to build relationships with their customers. Shopping at local businesses provides an opportunity to engage with the business owners and employees, creating a more personal and meaningful shopping experience. To make the most of Small Business Saturday, shoppers can plan their day by researching local businesses in advance. StayLocal provides a directory of independent businesses in the New Orleans area on their website. This directory can help shoppers discover new businesses and find the perfect gifts for their loved ones. In addition to supporting local shops and restaurants, shoppers can also explore seasonal markets and pop-up shops. These temporary retail spaces offer a unique shopping experience, featuring local artisans, makers, and crafters. Seasonal markets are a great way to discover locally-made products and support the creative community in New Orleans. Small Business Saturday is also an opportunity for businesses to promote themselves and attract new customers. Many businesses offer special promotions and discounts on this day to incentivize shoppers. By taking advantage of these deals, shoppers can find bargains while supporting their favorite local businesses. As the holiday season approaches, Small Business Saturday serves as a reminder to prioritize local businesses when checking off your shopping list. By intentionally choosing to support local businesses, shoppers can make a positive impact on their community and contribute to its economic vitality. Shopping at independent, locally-owned businesses helps to preserve the unique character of New Orleans and ensures that the city continues to thrive. In a world dominated by large corporations and online giants, Small Business Saturday is a call to action to champion the small businesses that make our communities special. So mark your calendars for November 25th and join StayLocal in celebrating Small Business Saturday. Explore the diverse array of local businesses in New Orleans, find unique gifts, and make a difference in your community. By supporting small businesses, you are investing in the vibrancy and resilience of your city.