Edhat Staff
Small Business Saturday is a day dedicated to supporting local businesses during the biggest shopping time of the year.
This is the perfect opportunity to not only check off items on your holiday shopping list but also contribute to the local Santa Barbara economy.
Here are some tips on how to support Small Business Saturday in Santa Barbara and make a positive impact on the community:
1. Explore Santa Barbara’s Small Business Districts
Santa Barbara boasts several charming neighborhoods that are home to a plethora of small businesses. From the Funk Zone, with its artsy vibe and boutique shops, to the downtown area of State Street, there are countless options to explore. Think the La Arcada Plaza where all the shops are local. Make it a point to visit these districts, discover hidden gems, and shop at locally-owned stores.
2. Prioritize Locally Made or Sourced Products
When shopping on Small Business Saturday, look for products that are made or sourced locally. This not only supports small businesses but also helps to sustain the local economy. From handcrafted jewelry and artisanal food products to artwork and clothing, you’ll find an array of unique items that highlight the creativity and craftsmanship of Santa Barbara.
3. Spread the Word on Social Media
Use the power of social media to amplify the voices of small businesses in Santa Barbara. Share posts, stories, and updates from your favorite local stores, encouraging your friends and followers to support Small Business Saturday. Consider tagging the businesses or using relevant hashtags such as #ShopLocalSB or #SupportSmallBusiness to increase visibility.
4. Purchase Gift Cards and Certificates
If you’re unsure what to buy, consider purchasing gift cards or certificates from local businesses. This not only allows your loved ones to choose something they truly desire but also supports the business financially during the holiday season. Gift cards can be a great way to introduce friends and family to new Santa Barbara businesses as well.
5. Attend Local Art and Craft Fairs
During the holiday season, Santa Barbara hosts various art and craft fairs where local artists and makers showcase their talents. Attend these events and browse the unique offerings, ranging from hand-painted ceramics to one-of-a-kind jewelry. These fairs provide an excellent opportunity to directly support local artists while finding truly special gifts.
6. Dine at Local Restaurants and Cafes
Supporting small businesses isn’t limited to shopping; it extends to dining as well. Enjoy a meal at Santa Barbara’s independently-owned restaurants and cafes, where you can savor delicious cuisine while supporting the local culinary scene. Whether it’s brunch, lunch, or dinner, choosing local establishments helps maintain the vibrant food culture of the city.
7. Embrace Sustainable Shopping Practices
As you support Small Business Saturday, keep sustainability in mind. Opt for products that are eco-friendly, ethically sourced, and of high quality. Consider reusable shopping bags and look for businesses that prioritize sustainable practices, such as using recycled materials or supporting fair trade.
Santa Barbara’s small businesses are the backbone of the community, providing unique products, experiences, and jobs.
By participating in Small Business Saturday, you contribute to the economic vitality of the city while nurturing a sense of community. So, mark your calendars, grab your friends and family, and join in the celebration of Santa Barbara’s vibrant small business community this Small Business Saturday.
Thanks for posting this. These are nice, helpful tips.
I would suggest to the city (or a local business group) that for one this day, or perhaps all the time, there be a small flag or some type of token that the business can display to designate that it’s a locally owned business. When I travel, I like to support other locally owned businesses when I can, but many times it’s hard to tell. It might look small and local and then you find out it’s owned by a big company. (For the record, I am not against big companies.)
Can someone list the large corporation stores that are remaining in Santa Barbara? I believe that this would be a shorter list to compile than a list of small locally owned businesses.
Ethically sourced? Gimme a break.
I would be more supportive of these importunations if “local business” bought local products. How many stores get their merchandise from national distributors on the basis of what is the most profitable for them? Should I feel better buying an imported automobile from a local dealer or a US worker built car from a dealer in Ventura (say)? If local businesses want local patronage they can get it by being competitive and sharing.