The Saturday after Thanksgiving is only days away, so get ready to shop until you drop in Sault Ste. Marie this Small Business Saturday because the stores will be dropping prices all day long.
The lobby of Avery Square is decked out with Christmas trees and colorful lights to host the Downtown Development Authority’s (DDA) welcome event. Come in to grab warm refreshments and chat with neighbors. The DDA will be giving away prizes for the three best selfies taken while shopping.
“The welcome event will begin at 10 a.m. and is where shoppers can find out what sales and specials are for the day,” said DDA Director Stephanie Sprecker. “You’ll love our unique stores and friendly faces.”
The Little Gift Shop owner Jill Rambo said her shop of gifts small and large will be open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. with plenty of sale items to choose from. Christmas wall decor will be marked 20% off, UP North sweatshirts will be 25% off, and other select merchandise will be 50% off. There will be a store drawing for free giveaway items. Free gift items will be available at the register while supplies last.
Certain restaurants are also planning to participate in Small Business Saturday this year. Maddie Fitzpatrick, employee at The Wicked Sister, said shoppers will receive 10% off their purchase when they choose to dine-in with a receipt from a local small business. If diners buy a gift card over $25, they will receive $5 off their next meal at The Wicked Sister.
“My hope as DDA director is that this serves as a catalyst and reminder to our community to shop local everyday, not just Nov. 26,” said Sprecker.
According to the American Express website, American Express started the Small Business Saturday shopping movement during the recession in 2010 to encourage shoppers to shop local. The goal is to bring more holiday shopping to small businesses.
When you post your Small Business Saturday selfies to the Downtown Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan Facebook page, be sure to use hashtags: #ShopSmall and #DowntownSault.
Take selfies while you shop. The best photos will be entered into a drawing for three prizes valued at $50. Submit photos by Wednesday, Nov. 30 at 5 p.m. to be considered. Winners will be announced on Friday, Dec. 2.
Check the Downtown Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan Facebook page for announcements, including an upcoming list of participating stores and deals.
