CHALMETTE, LA – The St. Bernard Economic Development Foundation (SBEDF) wants locals to consider the economic implications of purchasing just three holiday gifts from a locally owned establishment. "The tax dollars generated, support of local business owners and contributions to the unique assets within a neighborhood makes a community thrive," SBEDF reps said. Small Business Saturday is taking place this weekend on Saturday, Nov. 26, as a national initiative to support locally owned businesses across the United States, and SBEDF Executive Director, Andrew Jacques, believes the benefits of supporting local commerce is important to economic growth in the parish.
“When you opt to shop local, you are choosing to support local jobs, celebrating the local fabric of the community, and ultimately retaining more money in the local economy,” Jacques said.
Small Business Saturday began in 2010 to celebrate the Shop Small movement and drive shoppers to purchase from local merchants.
"St. Bernard Parish is home to the highest percentage of locally owned and family operated businesses in the Greater New Orleans region," SBEDF reps said. Several retail stores will be open on Small Business Saturday including Old Arabi Marketplace, Gypsy Soul Sisters Art Market, All About Me, Studio Inferno, Local Flair, The Cottage Store and Aniston Lane Boutique.
Wendy Haines, owner of the Cottage Store, said she is excited to welcome holiday shoppers for the first time this year in her new space in Studio Arabi, 6707 St. Claude Ave.
“The small business shopper is why I unlock my door each day,” Haines said. “The holidays are my favorite time of the year. I look forward to helping my costumers find the perfect gift for loved ones.”
SBEDF reps want to remind residents and visitors they can also support other small businesses including restaurants, professional service providers and pharmacies, not only during the holiday season, but all year long.
“A purchase made at any locally owned business is an investment back into the community; it helps neighbors pay their home mortgage and provide for their families,” Jacques said.
Haines is preparing her shop located on St. Claude for the holiday season with an assortment of handmade items.
