We know that small and local businesses are hurting now. We know we should do something, but it can sometimes feel a bit daunting and overwhelming to know how best to help.
Here are a few ways you can help support a small business. You don’t have to do them all, pick one that works for you. No matter what you choose, know that your help is making a huge difference! 🙏🏼
Order in from your favorite restaurant
Take the night off from all the experimental cooking you’ve been doing during lockdown and order from your favorite neighborhood restaurant. Restaurants are still open for takeout and delivery, so this is a great way to show your support. If you can, try ordering directly from a restaurant, versus a third party app, which may help restaurants avoid extra fees.
There’s nothing better than eating a meal while cozy at home, and compared to eating out, you’ll also save big with BYOB 😉
Get your booze locally
Speaking of BYOB, stock up from your local libation business of choice. Craft and small batch beer and wine is a fun way to shake up your evening.
Consider grabbing a few of each and host a DIY tasting or food pairing with your partner or roommates. Take it a step further and start a virtual wine (or beer) tasting club and encourage your friends to taste with you!
Many restaurants are even selling their signature cocktails to-go, as well!
Buy a gift card
If you don’t need something immediately, consider purchasing a gift card from a local business. It’s a quick and easy way to get cash into a business immediately. But let’s be honest, it’s even more fun to “find” a gift card in your wallet a few months from now. Who doesn’t need a surprise treat every now and then!
You can also talk to business owners and ask about seasonal sales to stretch your gift card further, or find out when they stock new items!
Choose local and small over the big guys
When you have the choice, grab what you need from a small or local business. You might even find something more unique or fun than what you were originally looking for. Small businesses often have higher quality items and better, more personalized service, too.
A tool like CloseBuy makes it easy for you to see if a small business has what you’re looking for!
Social support
Aside from spending money at small businesses, there are a lot of social/free ways to show your support. Write a rave review for your favorite small business on social media. 93% of consumers trust reviews from friends and family - so don’t be shy about giving a shout out to a business you love!
Small businesses are also active on social media. Share and like their posts to help amplify their reach. You might even inspire a friend or help them find their new go-to store!
I hope these tips helped. If you’re looking for an easy way to shop small, be sure to download the CloseBuy browser extension. We’ll do the hard work for you and let you know if that item you’re shopping for on Amazon is available at a small business!
And while you're at it, sign our Save Small Businesses pledge and let the world know you are a Small Business Champion!
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