Small Business Saturday is almost upon us. Time to get some of your holiday shopping done, and support some of the many small businesses who could use your patronage this holiday season.

What is Small Business Saturday?

Small Business Saturday will take place this year on November 25th. It’s a day to celebrate and support small business. It’s also a celebration of all that they do for. and in, their communities. The  day was founded by American Express in 2010, and has been officially co-sponsored by the Small Business Association since 2011. It’s an event that has been a huge boost for small businesses during the busiest shopping season.

What defines a small business?

Based on my research, there’s a lot that goes into what makes a business a small business. But the simplest term I found what that it’s defined by the side of the business (how many employees it has) and/or its annual revenue. Where it gets confusing is that even with these definitions, it depends on the industry. There are different numbers for different industries.

Some Small Business facts

• There are 32.5 million small businesses in the United States alone.
• Annually, small businesses account for 64% of new jobs every year, and create 1.5 million jobs in the United States.
• 60% of small business owners start  the business to be their own boss.
• Unfortunately, 50% of small businesses fail in the first five years.
• The good news is, over 65% of small businesses are profitable.
• About 64% of small businesses start with $10,000.
• Across the globe, 90% of all companies are small business, and account for 50% of all jobs.
• There are 400 million small businesses in the world.

Why should you shop small?

• Small businesses give back more to the community. When you spend money in your community, money stays in your community through sales tax.
• Small businesses create a sense of community.
• They create more local jobs and opportunities.

Here are some local small businesses that you can support in the Boston area.

• Brown & Coconut

  Brown and Coconut is a skincare line run by sisters Zeena and Latisha. It is definitely a brand I use and love, especially their toner and cleanser. This Black-owned, women-owned business produces products using ingredients that are cruelty-free, vegan, plant-based, that clean. Would make a great holiday gift.

• Fusion Dolls

  Fusion Dolls is a small business in Brockton by Widline Pyrame. She created a line of dolls to celebrate diversity and self-love. Fusion Dolls is beautiful line of multicultural dolls and accessories.

• All She Wrote Books

  All She Wrote Books is one of my favorite small businesses! It’s an intersectional, inclusive, feminist, queer bookstore. Owner Christina Pascucci Ciampa’s store was recently displaced from their Assembly Row location. But with the help of the community she has created, she recently re-opened at a new location, 75 Washington Street in Somerville. We wish her the best of luck, and if you have any book lovers on your holiday list, be sure to check her out.

• Simply Erin's Unisex Hair Salon

  Simply Erinn’s is a Unisex Hair Salon run by owner and head stylist Erinn Pearson. Her passion for her craft and the community around her, has given her an incredible reputation for 30+ years. Check her out for your own personal holiday makeover, or maybe hook up a friend for the holidays.

• Frugal Bookstore

  Frugal Bookstore is a Black-owned community bookstore located in Roxbury. Co-owners Leonard and Clarissa are incredible people who are very knowledgeable, helpful, and community-forward. In addition to a great selection of books, they also have a very active event calendar, and host book signings and author readings.

• Cityscapes - Visionary Plantscapes

  Cityscapes Visionary Plantscapes has been around since 1992, and offers a wide variety of products and services. They do: interior plantscapes, exterior  landscapes, living walls, moss walls, and living fernature. I may need to investigate that FerNature a little further. So beautiful!

• Urban Grape

  Urban Grape is a Black-owned, woman-owned small business, dedicated to building community through beverage. They are one of the country’s most successful independently-owned wine stores. In 2021, it was named the United States Small Business of the Year. Head to Urban Grape and let them help you pick out a special holiday beverage for your party or gift.

• Gather Here

  If you’re a crafty person, you should check out Gather Here. They’re “part of a powerful community of craft artisans and busy bees who believe handcrafted, handmade goodness is for everyone.” They describe their business as “Part sewing studio, part fabric and yarn shop, gather here is Cambridge’s only stitch lounge, created to cater to your fiber craft goals.” Looks like a fun place to get in touch with your creative side.  

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