Local businesses hope for strong support during the holiday season.
BRUNSWICK, Maine — While many shoppers may be focused on Black Friday deals, small business owners across Maine have their sights set on the day that follows: Small Business Saturday.
The annual event, celebrated nationwide, was created to encourage shoppers to support local businesses during the holiday season. For small business owners, it’s not just another busy day. It’s a chance to connect with the community and showcase the unique items and experiences they offer.
One such shop is Nest, located along Maine Street in Brunswick. Owner John Faulkner said he views Small Business Saturday as an opportunity to highlight the vital role local businesses play in the economy.
“It highlights small businesses, your communities, your small towns throughout the state, and that’s the backbone of our local economies,” Faulkner said. “It’s a counterpoint to big-box stores and online shopping, giving people a chance to come in, see products, and enjoy the art of finding a gift.”
Nest is known for its wide variety of products, ranging from handbags to soaps and other curated items. Faulkner hopes the store’s charm and unique offerings will make it a memorable stop for shoppers.
“It has lots of eye candy,” he explained. “People come in for one thing and leave with something they didn’t even know they needed.”
This ability to offer a distinctive shopping experience is what keeps loyal customers like Barbara Bowers coming back.
“Whenever I come to Brunswick, I pop in these shops,” Bowers said. “If I have time, I can easily spend two hours just browsing because there’s so much to look at.”
The stakes can be high for small business owners like Faulkner, especially as they face increasing competition from large retailers and online shopping platforms. For him and many others, Small Business Saturday is a lifeline.
In Freeport, another local business, Rustic Arrow, is hoping for a rush customers this weekend. Owner Sarah Cronin said the lifestyle shop offers carefully curated products, including clothing, accessories, and baby items.
“Small Business Saturday gives shoppers an opportunity to switch gears and shop for items that are more intentional or thoughtful,” Cronin said. “It’s a really big sales day for us, and we rely on it.”
Cronin also pointed out the impact of shopping locally.
“There’s a feel-good element to it,” she said. “The money that small businesses bring in stays in the community.”
How to Support Small Businesses
Supporting local businesses goes beyond shopping in person. There are other ways to help small businesses thrive:
- Spread the word. Share your favorite shops on social media or recommend them to friends.
- Purchase gift cards. These are a great option for stocking stuffers and help small businesses during slower months.
