All News & StoriesCelebrate Small Business Saturday: Supporting Local, Strengthening Communities
As the holiday season kicks off, there’s one important day that deserves your attention – Small Business Saturday. This annual event, held the Saturday after Thanksgiving, encourages shoppers to support the heart and soul of their communities: small businesses. While the big-box stores and online giants may dominate the holiday shopping scene, Small Business Saturday serves as a reminder of the unique value that local shops, artisans, and entrepreneurs bring to our neighborhoods. Whether you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind gift or just want to make a difference with your purchases, today is the perfect day to shop small and shop local!
Sarah, Community Engagement Specialist
As a self-proclaimed foodie, I have so many favorite local restaurants that it’s hard to choose just one—honestly, they could fill an entire paragraph! If you’re curious, feel free to ask, and I’ll happily share my top picks. But, when it comes to my all-time favorite local small business that’s not food-related, it has to be Hampton Design in Irvington. I absolutely LOVE that they are so unique, fun, and queer-owned.
Lauren, Family Engagement Specialist
I’m all about eating local—whether we’re in Indy or traveling, supporting local restaurants and tasting regional dishes is always a priority. Some of our favorites in Indy include Sahm’s, CR Heroes (especially for their wide range of gluten-free options!), Foxgardin, and Ale Emporium. But my absolute favorite is Bagel Fair in Nora. I grew up visiting this Jewish deli every weekend as a child, and I still can’t resist their blueberry bagel with cream cheese.
Skylar, Administrative Assistant
I love shopping small because it feels like my money is making a real impact. Rather than contributing to a CEO’s private jet fund, I can help a young girl take ballet lessons or support a local dream. Some of my current favorite small businesses are Hampton Design, The Hayloft Bakery, Simply Chic, The Local Radish, and The Magic Candle; all in Irvington. There’s truly nothing more satisfying than investing in the community I call home.
Lane, Human Resources Manager
We love strolling to local shops and restaurants in Broad Ripple, like BRICS and Broad Ripple Brew Pub. We visit the pub at least once a month, whether it’s for a meal or just to catch up with friends.
Rosy, Multicultural Family Engagement Specialist
The GREEN Bean, a cozy coffee and gift shop, opened about a year and a half ago right off U.S. 40 and Muessing. I’ve been wanting to stop by every weekend since it opened, but it’s always been so busy! I finally made it two Saturdays ago, and let me tell you— their coffee is incredible, and the selection of gifts is even better! From chicken and rooster earrings, shirts, oven mitts, and socks to unique art, glass figures, bracelets, and soaps, there’s so much to explore. I highly recommend checking them out!
Kristin, Communications Manager
As hard as I find it to break away from my big box favorites for goods and products, I’m lucky to live in a neighborhood with wonderful local restaurants and watering holes. You can usually find us in the basement of Goose the Market to try their new-to-us specials. Goose is also a great place to pop in when we’re feeling fancy and want some fresh meats and cheeses for a charcuterie board or just a nice family dinner.
Mollie, Executive Director
I like shopping at small boutiques and shops as items are usually unique and it’s fun discovering items that are ‘just the right gift’ for someone special.
Allie, Program Resource Navigator
I shop local and support small businesses because it helps keep our economy strong. When people in our communities thrive and reinvest in the local economy, our towns and cities can truly flourish. I have a few favorite metaphysical stores in Indianapolis: Inner Path, All My Relations, Global Gifts, and Silver in the City. These shops offer a variety of locally-made gemstones, candle melts, clothing, jewelry, and sculptures. While Global Gifts also features products from around the world, their mission to support small businesses globally aligns with my values of supporting entrepreneurs everywhere.
