Each year, it seems that the holiday shopping starts earlier and earlier, and this year is no exception. Black Friday deals have started as early as the first week in October, as major big box stores are trying to keep up with inflation, beat supply chain constraints, and compete in a competitive post-covid landscape.
But it’s not just the retailers’ fault. Higher prices due to inflation are pushing consumers to shop even earlier this year to stick to our budgets and shop with intention.
That’s why it’s more important than ever to shop small, and start early.
Small Business Saturday is especially important for the city if Grand Rapids. In 2021, Grand Rapids was named no. 9 most reliant metro on small businesses in the U.S., as our city is home to an estimated 19,000 small businesses.
Additionally, nearly half of the employees that work in Grand Rapids work at small businesses, meaning nearly every dollar you spend goes right back into our West Michigan economy.
To get you started, here are some of our favorite places to shop small in Grand Rapids:
Arts Marketplace
Aquastar Cruises
Artrat Gallery
Bricks & Minifigs Grand Rapids
Ball Park Floral & Gifts
Biked, Inc.
Button Up Your Plants
Courage & Soar
Escape World Travel
Flowerland
Gazelle Sports
Grand Vin
Hightalian Farms
House of Style
Kennedy’s Flowers and Gifts
Last Mile Café
Oh, Hello Co. Paper & Gifts
Periwinkle FOG
Shefit
Siegel Jewelers
Get our there, get your shopping done, and support our West Michigan economy!