It's Almost Here! Small Business Saturday {November 24th, 2012}

When it comes to shopping, this week is the week.

It's crunch time, the gold medal round, sudden death, time to put it all on the line. Ads are being scrutinized, lists are being made, game plans are being drawn and budgets are being revised.

But, wait. No matter if you're planning on getting up bright and early on Black Friday or taking to your computer on Cyber Monday, make sure that your schedule has Saturday the 24th highlighted. Because you're not going to want to miss taking part in Small Business Saturday!

A day dedicated to helping small businesses and their communities, Small Business Saturday is all about the importance of shopping small. By supporting local, independently-owned small businesses, you are able to help create jobs, boost the economy and preserve neighborhoods around the country.

If you've missed my previous posts about Small Business Saturday, then where have you been? This Saturday is the perfect time to head out and visit the local stores in your area, whether you already have your favorites or if there are some you've always wanted to try out.

Around here, my family has plans to spend Saturday visiting some of the shops in our area that always make us smile. I'm going to have to start my day with a delicious coffee at Barriques...

...we'll be sure to stock up on our favorite treats at Clasen's Bakery...

 ...eat one delicious meal at Hubbard Avenue Diner...

...and another at Vin Santo.

And what better way to end the day than with the amazing cupcakes at Bloom Bake Shop?

From small toy stores to the neighborhood florist to the local mechanic, shopping small allows you to make those close connections with the business owners in your neighborhood and show your support for the businesses that boost the economy and invigorate communities across the country. Whatever your plans are for this, the Super Bowl of Shopping week, be sure that it includes your small businesses!

Visit ShopSmall.com to find out where to Shop Small near you and Like the Small Business Saturday page on Facebook to learn even more.

I participated in a campaign on behalf of Mom Central Consulting for American Express. I received a promotional item as a thank-you for participating.