Shop Local this Holiday Season

This Thanksgiving many people will be eating dinner early so that they are able to go out for Black Friday shopping while some may be saving their holiday spending for Cyber Monday, the internet’s version of Black Friday. However, stuck in the middle of the two powerhouse shopping days is Small Business Saturday.

Small Business Saturday is a national initiative to promote local businesses. American Express began the campaign for local business owners in 2010 during the height of the recession. The first Small Business Saturday was held on Nov. 27, 2010 and became official in 2011. The purpose of the campaign was to promote job growth and put money back into the community. According to Forbes, in 2012, $5.5 billion dollars were spent at local dining and businesses the Saturday after Thanksgiving. The money made on Small Business Saturday is not only good for the owner but for the community it serves. The U.S. Small Business Administration credits the nearly 28 million small businesses as being responsible for 65 percent of net new jobs. Also, for every $100 spent in a small business, $68 goes back into the community via payroll and taxes. By supporting a small business in your area, you are supporting yourself.

The Cape May County Herald is celebrating small businesses by showcasing great gift giving ideas from your local shops. There is something for everyone right here in Cape May County. Be sure to check out the featured items in our “Holiday Gifting” section or check them out online at www.dotheshore.com/shoplocal.

If you are interested in being featured in “Holiday Gifting” please contact Ashley Hoff at ahoff@cmcherald.com or 609-886-8600×11.