Shoppers show support for local businesses Saturday

The holiday shopping spree is in full swing and Saturday was no exception. Shoppers turned out in droves for Small Business Saturday.

Independent stores like BG’s El Paseo said it appreciates the shop local initiative.

“I have loyal, loyal customers that have come back to me for years. And even if they aren’t purchasing, it’s just a chance to reconnect with them and be happy and see them again,” owner Elyssa Goldberg said.

Goldberg said customer service is how they set themselves apart from the rest.

“Everyone knows their name, they know what they like, they know what they want. As far as the competition in that sense, I think we are above and beyond with the service level,” Goldberg said.

Shoppers were also shopping local in Palm Springs, packing shops and snagging holiday goodies.

“I think people really appreciate we believe in customer service, number one, and a lot of the big stores don’t give that anymore. So for me, customer service, having a unique selection of merchandise that you cannot find in other stores and I actually curate the merchandise so I pick everything you see in the store,” said Stephen Monkarsh, owner of Just Fabulous Palm Springs.

Many shoppers said when you’re shopping for loved ones, think small before you go big.

“I think local businesses are the backbone of the economy of the country. And if we don’t support them, then we’re not helping the people who help us succeed and have a good life,” said shopper Barbara Hunter.