Small Business Saturday in City Center, Mankato

Imagine a day of shopping filled with smiling people. People taking turns and being patient. There is no pushing. There is no rudeness- only kindness and laid-back attitudes. Yes, people, this happened. I witnessed it. Not only that, it happened right at our own store on Small Business Saturday!

The small business owners of downtown Mankato and North Mankato, along with the City Center Mankato, hosted a Shop Small event this past Saturday. Interested participants could visit/shop participating establishments and get a stamp on his or her "passport". Completed passports could then be turned in for prizes. Pair that with the GSR Fine Art Festival happening right next to the Verizon Center on a 60 degree day in November, and you have yourself the makings of a GREAT DAY! (Plus - FREE TOTE BAGS.)

Some of our fellow business owners tried to warn us that foot traffic would be heavy on this day. But, we weren't prepared for the outpouring of love shown to us on Small Business Saturday. I don't think I sat down once between the hours of 9 am and 6 pm, and there was a good chance I was dehydrated, but this girl didn't care ONE BIT! New people and old friends were joining us to shop small. We had an epic day because there is a nothing than pleases a small business owner more than a busy shop and people enjoying his or her goods and services.

In case you didn't know, the Small Business Saturday movement was actually started by American Express. They provide marketing support and many free items to help smaller establishments compete in communities. When you shop small, the whole community benefits because studies have shown that when you purchase from local businesses, more money stays right in the community - including charities.

So, from the bottom of our hearts, thank you to everyone who has helped us grow this holiday season! We can't wait to do it again next year!

Love,

Sharry and Mr. Rose (He likes to stay behind the scenes...)

(Here we are after 9 hours - getting a little weird.)

P.S. Learn More about Small Business Saturday.

P.P.S. Read more about it from the Mankato Free Press.

P.P.P.S. Ajax was showing his support by napping at home whilst wearing his new bandanna.