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The holiday season is a critical time for small businesses. Many rely on the increased traffic and sales to sustain themselves throughout the year. Supporting local businesses boosts the local economy, fosters a sense of community and keeps unique, high-quality goods and services available.
Local businesses are the heart and soul of Arkansas communities, offering unique products, personalized service, and a sense of connection that big-box stores simply can’t replicate. Shopping locally isn’t just about making a purchase—it’s about investing in your neighbors, supporting jobs, and keeping money within the state to strengthen our shared economy.
From charming florists like Mary & Martha Florist & Gifts to family-owned bookstores and artisan markets, Arkansas is filled with one-of-a-kind businesses that contribute to the character and creativity of our towns. Every dollar spent at a local business helps sustain the creativity and community spirit that make our state a special place to live.
As you go about your holiday shopping or everyday errands, take a moment to explore the incredible variety of local shops, makers, and small businesses Arkansas has to offer. By shopping local, you’re not just buying a product—you’re helping your community thrive.
Small Businesses Thrive in the Holidays
Main Street and downtown districts across Arkansas truly shine during the holiday season. Picture this: strolling through streets adorned with magical lights, catching the scent of cider simmering from morning to evening, and hearing the cheerful melodies of carolers—all just steps away from your town square or within a short drive from your own Christmas tree.
Local small-business owners go above and beyond to help you find the perfect gifts, even for the trickiest names on your list. Many offer complimentary wrapping and may even deliver your purchases, making holiday shopping easier and more enjoyable.
10 ways to support small businesses during the holidays:
Shop Local, Shop Early
One of the simplest ways to support small businesses is to prioritize them for your holiday shopping. Shopping early in the season helps these businesses manage inventory and avoid the year-end rush. Local shops often have unique products you can’t find in big-box stores, making your gifts extra special. Check with your local Chamber of Commerce or Tourism Council to find out if they have a particular promotion to feature your local businesses during the holidays, like a bingo game or drawing ties to local purchases.
Purchase Gift Cards
A gift card is a perfect solution if you need help deciding what to buy. It gives the recipient the freedom to choose what they want, and the business benefits immediately from the sale. Plus, gift card recipients often bring in new customers when they visit.
Promote Businesses on Social Media
Even if you can’t always buy from small businesses, you can still support them by sharing their content on social media. Post about your favorite shops, tag them in your stories or leave a positive review. Your endorsement could introduce them to potential new customers.
Shop Small Online
Many small businesses now offer online shopping, allowing you to support them without getting out. Check their websites or social media for exclusive online deals, and remember to be patient with shipping, as smaller operations might need more time. Take advantage of complimentary wrapping and curbside pickup; it really is all in the details.
Support Local Restaurants and Cafes
The holiday season is busy for everyone, and dining out or ordering takeout can be a lifesaver. Choose local eateries for your meals or coffee runs. Buying gift cards from them also makes excellent presents for foodies – or busy teachers and coaches.
Attend Holiday Markets and Pop-Ups
Holiday markets and pop-ups are treasure troves of local talent. These events often feature small businesses that might not have a permanent storefront. You’ll discover unique, handcrafted items while directly supporting local entrepreneurs.
Leave Positive Reviews
Online reviews are crucial for small businesses, as they influence potential customers. Take a few minutes to leave a glowing review on platforms like Google, Yelp or Facebook. Your kind words could help them stand out during the competitive holiday season. A “love local” campaign during the holidays is a great way to focus on getting locals to share support and love of local businesses. Be intentional about stopping while you are at a local business during Dec. to leave them a review!
Volunteer or Donate
Many small businesses collaborate with local charities or host community events during the holidays. Offer to volunteer your time or donate goods if they’re running a food or toy drive. Supporting their philanthropic efforts helps both the business and the community.
Buy From Local Artisans
Support local artists and crafters by purchasing their work as gifts. From paintings and pottery to handmade jewelry and candles, artisan goods offer one-of-a-kind presents while supporting the creative economy. Often, you can find these artists inside another boutique or at a farmers’ market. Sometimes, a tree lighting or holiday market will highlight a pop-up market for produce, baked goods and handmade gifts.
Spread the Word
Word-of-mouth remains one of small businesses’ most effective marketing tools. Tell your friends, family, and colleagues about your favorite local spots. Your recommendation could bring new customers and create a ripple effect of support. If you have a favorite things party to attend, consider getting something local you’ve found and love. Items like jams and jellies, honey, handmade soap or candles, jewelry, or cleaning products are all fun features for holidays and stocking stuffers.
Holiday sales are critical for small businesses, often accounting for a significant portion of their annual revenue. On average, small businesses project that about one-third of their yearly income is generated during the holiday season, underscoring the importance of holidays for their financial health and long-term sustainability.
Small businesses are the backbone of our communities. They provide jobs, support local charities, and contribute to the unique character of our neighborhoods. By consciously supporting them during the holiday season, you help ensure their success for years.
This holiday season, let’s all pledge to shop small and local and show appreciation for our community’s hard-working entrepreneurs. Together, we can make a big difference!
Keisha (Pittman) McKinney lives in Northwest Arkansas with her chicken man and break-dancing son. Keisha is passionate about connecting people and building community, seeking solutions to the everyday big and small things, and encouraging others through the mundane, hard, and typical that life often brings. She put her communications background to work as a former Non-profit Executive Director, college recruiter and fundraiser, small business trainer, and Digital Media Director at a large church in Northwest Arkansas. Now, she is using those experiences through McKinney Media Solutions and her blog @bigpittstop, which includes daily adventures, cooking escapades, #bigsisterchats, the social justice cases on her heart, and all that she is learning as a #boymom! Keisha loves to feed birds, read the stack on her nightstand, do dollar store crafts, cook recipes from her Pinterest boards, and chase everyday adventures on her Arkansas bucket list.
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