As the holiday season rolls around, there’s a special buzz that fills the air—not just from the holiday sales but from the anticipation of Small Business Saturday. It’s a moment where we pause and reflect on the importance of supporting those who put their heart and soul into building something from the ground up. This sentiment resonates even deeper for us this year.

The Journey of a Small Business: 

This past year has been a whirlwind for Maggie and me, filled with growing pains, tough decisions, and moments of doubt. We’ve experienced what it truly means to be small business owners, feeling the weight of every choice and celebrating every tiny victory. The journey of running a small business is not for the faint of heart—it requires facing fears, learning to trust yourself, and believing in your vision when it feels like no one else does.

It’s deeply moving to see others go through this same journey. We’ve been inspired by friends who are small business owners and by the incredible young woman we mentor, a college student who is courageously starting her jewelry business by hand-making bracelets. Seeing her work through challenges and build her brand reminds us of where we started and why this path, though difficult, is so worth it.

Why Supporting Small Businesses Matters:

1. Community Connection
   Small businesses are the heartbeat of our communities. Each shop, whether it's a local cafe, a handmade jewelry stand, or a vintage boutique, carries a unique charm. They offer a sense of place, culture, and connection that big corporations simply can't replicate.

2. A Personal Touch
   There’s something so special about buying from a small business. You get to meet the person behind the product, hear their story, and connect with their passion. It’s a personalized experience that feels like catching up with an old friend rather than just a transaction.

3. Supporting Dreams
   When you buy from a small business, you’re not just purchasing a product—you’re investing in someone’s dream. You’re helping a young college student see the first sale of her handmade bracelet, encouraging a local artist to keep creating, and supporting a family’s livelihood.

4. Unique Finds
   Shopping small means discovering one-of-a-kind items you won’t find in big stores. It’s like going on a treasure hunt and finding pieces that tell a story—pieces you’ll cherish forever.

5. Economic Impact
   Every purchase you make from a small business fuels the local economy. You’re helping create jobs, supporting families, and keeping neighborhoods vibrant. It’s a powerful ripple effect that benefits the entire community.

Celebrating Small Businesses We Love

This year, we want to shine a spotlight on a few incredible small businesses that have touched our hearts. Each one is a testament to passion, resilience, and creativity:

AstraShop21
Our mentee, Katia's, business, AstraShop21, is all about empowering individuals on their journey to holistic well-being. Her mission is to provide education, inspiration, and access to high-quality crystal jewelry and accessories. With a belief that "A positive life comes from a positive mind," she fosters a community celebrating the healing properties of crystals. Every piece is handcrafted with intention, and we are incredibly proud of her growth and dedication.

Abbode
Nestled in Nolita, Abbode is more than just a store; it's a creative haven founded by our friend Abby. Specializing in intricate embroidery, Abby's recent collections have us completely obsessed. Whether you’re looking for custom monogrammed treasures or unique pieces with a touch of artistic flair, Abbode is a must-visit for those who appreciate thoughtful craftsmanship.

Select Vintage
Founded by our friend Justine, Select Vintage is like unearthing a time capsule filled with curated vintage goodness. Justine’s eye for sustainable fashion brings new life to classic pieces, making it the perfect spot for anyone looking to add timeless gems to their wardrobe.

How You Can Make an Impact This Small Business Saturday

• Shop Local: Take a stroll through your local shops and support the ones that make your community special. You might find the perfect gift or a little something for yourself.
• Spread the Word: Share your favorite small businesses on social media. A simple shoutout can make a huge difference in visibility for these brands.
• Shop with Heart: When you choose to buy from a small business, you’re making a meaningful impact. You’re choosing to support someone’s dream and help their story continue.

This Small Business Saturday, we invite you to join us in shopping with intention and heart. Let’s support the incredible entrepreneurs who are putting their all into making something special. Together, we can create a ripple effect of positivity and growth in our communities.

Thank you for being part of this journey with us and for supporting not just our dreams but the dreams of small business owners everywhere.