Small businesses say shop local, help economy

Some small businesses in Grand Junction aren't trying to compete with the big-box stores on Black Friday... they have their own special day.

Small Business Saturday is highlighting the impact all the local shops have on our economy.

Bill Keith, Owner of Quilters’ Corner, says, "We try not to get caught up in as much of the commercialized specials and the Black Friday rush."

You can drop your cash at super stores on Black Friday or send it through the web on Cyber Monday.  You can also spend it locally with someone you know on Small Business Saturday.

"There’s a lot of our neighbors and community out here that are trying to make a living. It’s been very tough economic times," Beth Zanski, Owner of Culinary Corner, said.

Although most mom and pop shops can't promise major deals this weekend, they believe small businesses are the life-blood of the community.

"We need our locals to continue to support us and not send all their dollars away from the area.  It hurts everyone in the long run,” Keith said.

"A lot of small businesses cannot compete with the big stores, cannot match the discounts, and they don't buy in bulk,” Zanski explained. “I think we should just help them because they are who they are."

Small Business Saturday is a fairly new tradition, only three years old. Store owners say it’s already had a great impact, helping people understand the importance of shopping local.