
The holiday season is a critical time for small businesses. According to a recent American Express study, 78{3e92bdb61ecc35f2999ee2a63f1e687c788772421b16b0136989bbb6b4e89b73} of small-business merchants say that holiday sales will impact their ability to stay in business in 2022. Every small-business purchase adds up to make a large impact — consumers shopping small this holiday season have the potential to contribute an estimated $695 billion into the U.S. small-business economy, the study found — so consider making your gift purchases at a local or online small business.
See: Why Everyone Should Have a Small Business Idea Ready
Start Your Own: Small-Business Ideas for a Post-Pandemic World
Need some inspiration? This Small Business Saturday, consider buying from one of these nominated businesses that have been featured in GOBankingRates’ Small Business Spotlight series.
Eden in Love
Eden in Love is a lifestyle boutique based in Honolulu that ships across the U.S. Owners Tanna and Bryson Dang specialize in curating exclusive products that guarantee desk envy at the office, best gift giver status and a slew of compliments in the supermarket line. Their robust online store sells clothing, accessories, home goods and gifts, so you’re sure to find something special for all the hard-to-shop-for people on your list.
See: Small Businesses That Celebrities Love
Elevated Grounds Coffee & Espresso
If you live in the Lindon, Utah, area, stop by Elevated Grounds Coffee & Espresso to try their coffee — and then gift it to your loved ones.
“Gift them a gift card and let them try it out,” said owner Nicole Evans. “Buy a logo thermos and a bag of your favorite coffee or chai.”
More: Small Ideas That Turned Into Million-Dollar Businesses
KJS Creations
Looking for one-of-a-kind kids’ gifts? Check out KJS Creations, which sells hand-cut and -crafted hair accessories, as well as jewelry and handbags.
“I promise no one will be sorry with a bow covered in sparkling glitter!” said owner Cassondra Shulenburg.
La Nature
Take the environmental guilt out of holiday shopping by making your purchases at La Nature, a zero-waste store. The Brooklyn-based shop sells household goods, bath and body items, and more, available online as well for a flat rate shipping fee of $4.50 or free shipping for orders over $50.
See: 5 Amazing Small Businesses That Lasted Through the Pandemic
Melmo’s Dog Treats
Melmo’s Dog Treats is a woman-owned, all-natural, handmade, locally sourced dog biscuit business based in Philadelphia, but the treats are available to purchase online. The treats come in peanut butter, blueberry, mint berry, beef stew and homestyle chicken flavors, and will make the perfect gift for your dog or a dog lover on your list.
R&ARIE
Based in Portland, Oregon, R&ARIE is “more than a skincare company.” The product line includes exfoliating scrubs, bath soaks, candles, lotion and body oil, and makes the perfect gift for someone (or yourself) whom you want to pamper. Check out its full offerings online.
Soap Junkii
Soap Junkii is a small batch bath and body company based in Chicago. The small business’ 100{3e92bdb61ecc35f2999ee2a63f1e687c788772421b16b0136989bbb6b4e89b73} handmade products — available to purchase online — include soap, body butter and infused oils for all skin types.
Check Out: 25 Small Businesses Every Neighborhood Needs
The Toasted Mallow
Gift your friends and family members sweet treats from The Toasted Mallow, which is based in Gilbert, Arizona, but has an online store. Featured treats include hortchata-, s’mores- and caramel apple-flavored marshmallows and cookie butter mallow cups.
“It’s important for consumers to support small businesses during the holiday because it’s what will keep them in business throughout the year,” said owners Tricia and Hazel Arce.
Windy Hills Lavender Farm
Windy Hills Lavender Farm is a family-run farm in Heber, Arizona, that makes a number of lavender-infused gifts, such as essential oils, face mists and lotion.
“If you can’t get up to Heber, our store is online,” said co-owner Cindy Schooley. “We will be happy to ship you our wonderful products. We do offer free shipping with purchases of $50 or more and we always have sales going on.”
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