Community spirit shines as locals and visitors flock to markets for Small Business Saturday, driving vital revenue for businesses and savoring unique holiday finds.
SPOKANE, Wash. — With the holidays right around the corner, days like Small Business Saturday helps people find both the perfect gift and help their community.
Visitors from near and far are stepping out to support local this holiday season, like Maggie Ray at the Kizuri Global Holiday Market.
“I got some wonderful things for some people in my life I can’t share because they might be watching,” said Ray.
Or Jolie Monasterio from the Scale House Market Winter Market.
“Got a nice hefty mug for that coffee I like to drink,” said Monasterio.
Regardless of where shoppers spent Small Business Saturday, the universal sentiment for everyone’s reason for celebrating this day is the same.
“Oh I think its so so important you know we have 365 days a year to go out and support other businesses and everyone in the community but there’s one time and one day out in the year where we can go out and make a difference for them I know you know a lot of stores count on today for revenue so why not do it find some really unique gifts and meet some really cool people as well,” said Ray.
Directors of two prominent markets showcasing local vendors regularly, Director of Scale House Market Brittany Tyler and Melanie Duffield say they’re continually impressed by the way the community shows up for these events.
“It’s something that you will see local shopping at other places, but you don’t see places support itself the way Spokane does. It’s really something special and unique here,” said Tyler.
Duffield expresses her excitement over how the community is making a big impact.
“Having it be this big success and the overwhelming support we have gotten from the community and everybody is so excited about it – I’m thrilled. I’m thrilled,” said Duffield
Whether it’s taking photos with Santa or enjoying a nice cup of hot cocoa with the family, Small Business Saturday is a good reminder of what your community can provide, but Tyler says days like today shouldn’t be the only day folks shop local.
“Don’t leave it to this weekend, make it something that is really part of your routine, really make it a point to intentionally reach out and support our small businesses because we want them around this year, next year and 10 years into the future,” said Tyler.
