In 2010, the financial powerhouse American Express began promoting Small Business Saturday — a day to remind consumers that small businesses are alive and well and ready to provide consumers with a less frenetic shopping experience than Black Friday. Small businesses have taken up the mantle, and the event has steadily grown in the past few years. This year, Small Business Saturday is November 28, and many local shops will participate.
The number of small businesses in the United States is growing. According to the Small Business Administration, 28 million small businesses in the nation account for 54 percent of all sales, and 55 percent of all jobs. However, many small businesses struggle, due to increased competition from big-box retailers and online discount sites.
The East 10th Street Business Association will be celebrating on November 28 with a host of shops open along East 10th St. Green Bean Boutique will be open at 10 a.m., giving out free swag bags valued at over $50 in handmade, local goodies for the first 35 customers to come through the door (2809 E. 10th St.). Rabble Coffee will be hosting a concert with local children’s musician Mr. Daniel at 10:30 a.m. (2119 E. 10th St.). Metta Yoga (3125 E. 10th Street Suite I) is also offering several classes on Small Business Saturday for folks who want to support a local business but prefer to workout/relax instead of shopping. The East 10th Street corridor has become home to several successful businesses, including Pogue’s Run Grocer, Gordon’s Ice Cream Parlor, the Tick Tock Lounge, Audrey’s Place, and the latest, Love Handle restaurant (2829 E. 10th), which has gained a lot of praise with its high-quality breakfasts and sandwiches.
In Irvington, the small shops along Audubon, East Washington, and Johnson are terrific places to find one-of-a-kind goods year round, and especially for holiday gift-giving. Irvington Vinyl, located at 9 S. Johnson, will open at 8 a.m. on Black Friday for Record Store Black Friday, offering regional and first releases. Someone on your list would appreciate Wes Montgomery on vinyl, or perhaps you need to increase your collection. Just across the street, check out the new coffee shop, 10 Johnson, for refreshments to keep your energy levels up.
Beech Grove Main Street businesses are offering Small Business Saturday deals, including Spalding Jewelry, Eckstein Shoe Store, BG Emporium, Harlow Rouge Couture, and many more.
