Shreveport Celebrates Small Business Saturday with Big Heart
In the charming city of Shreveport, Louisiana, the holiday season is officially kicking off with excitement, and local businesses are inviting everyone to join in the fun this Small Business Saturday! This special day, which takes place right after Black Friday, is all about supporting local shops and reinvesting in the community. It’s a beautiful opportunity for residents to show their love for the small businesses that truly make Shreveport shine!
Big Spending, Bigger Impact
Did you know that last year alone, Americans spent a whopping $17 billion at local businesses on Small Business Saturday? That’s a fantastic figure! Since the holiday was created back in 2010, total spending has skyrocketed to an astonishing $201 billion. These stats from the U.S. Small Business Administration really highlight how much we can do to help our community when we choose to shop local.
Community Support at the Core
Local business owners are everyday heroes in Shreveport. They are often the backbone of community events and charitable efforts. For instance, Carrie Restel, the proud owner of The Grove, firmly believes in the power of shopping small. Located at 107 N. Spring Street, The Grove is not just any store; it houses 54 independent vendors, each running their own small business. Restel notes, “When you shop big-box retailers, that money is not coming back to your community. But when you shop the little guys, all that money comes right back here!”
This sentiment resonates with many local shoppers who enjoy knowing that their purchases contribute directly to Shreveport. “These small businesses sponsor school events and donate to local charities,” Restel adds. “They’re counting on shoppers this time of year to lift them up and support their roles in the community.”
Excitement in the Air
Just a hop away, JoBeth Sheppard runs Parish Girls and Simply Chic, two delightful boutiques located side by side at 6120 Line Avenue. She’s buzzing with enthusiasm this holiday season. “We’ve been bustling with shoppers for Black Friday, and we’re hopeful that everyone comes back for Small Business Saturday,” Sheppard says, urging everyone to remember that small businesses are the ones supporting little league teams, schools, and charities through donations and sponsorships. “It’s very heartwarming!”
More Than Just Shoppers
One of the best parts about shopping at local stores is the sense of community that comes along with it. At The Enchanted Garden, located at 2429 Line Avenue, the connection runs deep. Owner Deb Cockrell has been a beloved fixture in the community for 44 years, and she recalls how customers often become friends. Justin Jahnke shared his heartfelt memories of visiting the enchanting toy store as a child. “I remember pulling into the parking lot, just enchanted by what I’d find inside!” he reminisced.
Deb couldn’t be happier to have built such a strong bond with her loyal customers over the years. “Small Business Saturday is our chance to show them how much we appreciate their support,” Cockrell explains. “We love seeing familiar faces and catching up with everyone during this special weekend. Our customers have truly become our friends, and that is the best part of the holidays!”
Join the Celebration!
As the holiday season rolls in, Shreveport welcomes you to take part in this wonderful tradition of supporting local businesses. So, gather your friends and family, and enjoy a delightful day out shopping while also giving back to the community. After all, every dollar spent at a local shop is a step towards strengthening the heart and soul of Shreveport!
