Small business Saturday boosts local businesses

While many people kicked off their Christmas shopping on Black Friday, today small businesses geared up for a day of deals and steals. If you’re not into Black Friday’s door buster deals or Cyber Monday’s on-line approach, Small Business Saturday might suite you well. A day celebrated to support independent businesses and the local economy. Experts say if you spend $100 at a local business, roughly $68 stays in your local economy, but if you spend $100 at a large business, only $43 stays. In Down Town Palm Springs, LuLu Lady Boutique owner, LuLu Pillay says she’s happy to see a day dedicated to her trade. “The locals come over and support us and even the tourists. because we have very, very unique things. Everything is handmade,” Pillay said. And right down the street at Oooh LaLa’s Boutique, Michelle Gonzales preaches, shopping small is all about experience. “It’s easier to go online and go to Amazon and Ebay and get all these deals and have these things delivered to your front door, but you’re not going to get that beautiful gift wrapping that’s complimentary or just the great service,” said Gonzales- “Sometimes customer experience is OK in the larger type of warehouse shops, but I prefer having that small type conversation here,” said one shopper. “I think everyday is important to remember the small businesses…Big chain stores are great. I’m not saying not to shop at them. But to remember the little guys’ is important,” Gonzales said.