Ways You Can Support Small Businesses

With over a year of the pandemic under our belts, and with vaccines finally being rolled out, it feels like we’re settling into the new normal. But that’s not an excuse to get complacent—we still need to wear our masks, wash our hands and do our part to support small businesses.

It’s no secret that small businesses have taken a major hit in the last year. Due to the pandemic, both consumers and small businesses have suffered financially. Luckily, this week is National Small Business Week, which is a great excuse to lend your support.

What is National Small Business Week?

National Small Business Week falls this very week, from May 2^ndto May 8^th. It’s a time that brings awareness to small businesses, hopefully giving them a bit more business. This is important now more than ever, considering the toll the pandemic has taken on small businesses. Some of your locally-owned businesses may be participating, but whether or not they are, it’s a great opportunity to support them any way you can.

How to Support Small Businesses During National Small Business Week

Ready to celebrate National Small Business Week? If you take the right precautions, you can safely and responsibly support your locally-owned businesses. Here are some ways you can support small businesses this week:

Check if Any Stores Are Celebrating National Small Business Week

First things first—do your research! Check if your favorite small businesses are participating in National Small Business Week. Some might post special promotions on their social media pages. That way you might be able to save a little money when shopping small.

Plan Ahead and Buy Gifts in Advance

Are there any birthdays coming up? Or maybe anniversaries? Plan ahead by buying as many gifts as you can in advance! Scour your favorite small businesses and find the perfect gifts for your family and friends. Not only will you be supporting small businesses, but you’ll be saving yourself the hassle of buying a present last minute.

Grow Your TBR List by Stocking Up on Books from Local Bookstores

If you’re like almost everyone else, you might’ve made the goal to read more when the pandemic started. Whether or not you actually reached your goal is another matter. If you’d like to read more, head to your local bookstores to create a decent TBR (to be read) stack. You can stock up on all the books you’d like to read for the year.

Support Local Restaurants and Dine Out (or Order In) This Week

This might be the easiest one on the list! Avoid the hassle of cooking at home by grabbing food from a few of your favorite local restaurants. Or be brave and try a restaurant you’ve never been to. Depending on how comfortable you are, you can either dine in at the restaurant or order takeout. And you don’t have to order a whole meal every time—you can just grab dessert from your favorite local bakery.

Local gyms and fitness studios really suffered during the pandemic. Luckily, many adapted to the current situation by offering online fitness classes. If you miss going to the gym, consider signing up for classes from your local gym or studio. That way you can exercise from the safety of your own home!

Leave a Decent Tip

This is a rule you should follow all the time, but it’s especially important for small businesses. If you’re eating out at a local restaurant, leave a generous tip. And if you’re simply shopping at a small business, leave a few bucks in their tip jar. Every bit helps, even it’s just a few dollars!

Wear a Mask and Time Your Visit

If you prefer to visit your favorite small businesses in person, take precautions. Be sure to wear a mask and keep your distance when you see other shoppers in the store. If possible, plan when to shop to avoid the busiest times of the day. For example, shopping soon after a store opens might be your best bet.

Order Ahead and Pick Up Your Order

If you want to avoid crowded stores during National Small Business Week but don’t want to deal with shipping, simply place an order online and then pick it up yourself. Many small businesses have begun offering this service since the onset of coronavirus. You may also be able to arrange to pick up items after the weekend, when the store might be less crowded.

Ways to Support Local Businesses Without Spending Money

Are you on a tight budget this year? Don’t worry—there are still ways that you can support your favorite small businesses without spending money.

Leave a Glowing Review

You know that your favorite small business offers great products and services, but everyone else might not know that. Give your favorite small businesses glowing reputations by leaving positive reviews! Make your reviews as detailed as possible—mention the quality of the products and the excellent service. The more stars a small business has, the more likely it is that others will buy from them.

Give your favorite small business a shout-out by posting about them on your social media! Share their posts, list out your favorite small businesses or like their posts. If you’ve made a purchase from a small business that you love, share a picture and tag them. Posting about small businesses is a great way to create awareness in your social circle.

Stay Loyal and Spread the Word

Sure, you might not be spending money right now. But whenever you have to buy something in the future, stop by your favorite small business first! One of the best things you can do for your favorite small business is to stay loyal.

In the meantime, spread the word! Recommend different small businesses to your friends and family. Create even more loyal customers for your favorite locally-owned businesses.

Be Safe When Shopping during National Small Business Week

Yes, it’s possible to shop safely at your favorite locally owned stores during National Small Business Week. Be sure to act smart, keep the pandemic in mind, and plan your shopping ahead of time.

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