By Pat Maurer
Correspondent
Interested in a traditional small town holiday shopping experience?
Shop small!
Just think: twinkling Christmas lights, sipping on hot cocoa, munching on Christmassy treats and visiting local shops offering one-of-a-kind gifts and favorite brands. The Clare area is a shopper’s destination for those looking for something special—a gift that’s unique and given with love.
You can find all that right around home!
Clare area kicks off the holiday shopping season with Small Business Saturday® tomorrow!
The event takes place just two weeks before Clare’s annual Christmas festivities that will be held Saturday, December 9th.
“If you are looking to save some money as you tackle that growing holiday shopping list, participating businesses will be open all day with great items to fill your Christmas shopping list.
Shops and restaurants will be dressed in their holiday spirit offering specials, discounts and a chance to win one of three big basket giveaways filled with great items donated by the participating businesses.
If you would like a chance to win one of the three great prizes, stop into a business on the list which will be published in full on Wednesday. You can eat, order food to go or make a purchase and put your name and email down to be entered into the drawing! You may enter once at each of the participating businesses on “Small Business Saturday.”
There are lots of great Chamber members and other local businesses that would love to see you out shopping in their businesses tomorrow. These businesses offer great ideas for teacher and hostess gifts as well as for all family members on your list.
Many local businesses are participating in this event Saturday. As more businesses become involved in the event, their promotions will be added/listed on the Clare Chamber website – claremichigan.com and on the Facebook page.
The Small Business Administration reports that for every $100 spent at a locally owned business, $68 stays in the community.
Nestled in between Black Friday and Cyber Monday, this event, founded by American Express in 2010, encourages consumers to get out and shop at their local neighborhood stores.
Small businesses offer value in the form of their expertise, great service and small touches.