We all have a favorite local coffee shop, bookstore or corner market that is part of the daily routine. You know the one…the people are friendly and hard-working; they know your name when you walk in and already have your order ready.
When we support these businesses, we’re all telling the owners, employees and community that we care and that we love them. Even a monthly or weekly visit can tip the scale and put that business in the black to make sure it remains a part of our vibrant community.
It’s as easy as 1, 2, 3 to support your favorite small businesses right now.
- Referrals – Word of mouth is so valuable to local businesses. If you had a positive experience, share that information with your family and friends. Encourage them to check it out; better yet, take them along on your next trip!
- Reviews – Take the time to leave your favorite place a review on Facebook. Most people will search online for reviews before actually checking out a place in person. It takes little time but helps immensely. (And if you’re not asking for reviews of your own work, you should start!)
- Gift Cards – Gift cards are a great way to support local businesses near and far. If you need a present for Great Aunt Ruth in California, do a little research, and send her a gift card to her local boutique. Gift cards are no longer just a chain store thing, and many local options have e- certificates that can be sent to her inbox, too!
Your SLTA board will continue to use this space to share group news and business tips in the future. However, since we’re an industry powered by small businesses, we thought this list would be perfect for the month of love. SLTA: United in our mission and in our communities.