Small businesses are the backbone of the American economy, and Shop Small Saturday is the perfect opportunity to show your support! This nationwide event takes place on the Saturday after Thanksgiving, and encourages people to shop at small, local businesses.

Last year, an estimated 112 million people shopped small on Shop Small Saturday. This year, let's make it 113 million! Here are three reasons why you should shop small this holiday season.

1. You'll find unique gifts that you won't find anywhere else.
When you step into a small business, you're stepping into a one-of-a-kind shopping experience. The items you'll find are carefully curated by the owner with their customers in mind. That means you can shop with confidence, knowing that you'll find the perfect gift for everyone on your list.

2. You'll be supporting your community.
When you shop small, you're investing in your community. Small businesses are more likely to keep their money within the local economy, which supports other businesses and creates jobs. In fact, for every $100 spent at a local business, $68 stays in the community. So when you shop small, you're not just supporting a business—you're supporting your whole community.

3. You'll enjoy a more personal shopping experience.
Small businesses offer a level of customer service that's simply unmatched by large corporations. When you walk into a small business, you're not just another number—you're a valued customer. The owner or staff will take the time to get to know you and your needs so they can help you find exactly what you're looking for. And if they don't have what you're looking for in stock, they'll do their best to special order it for you. That's the kind of customer service that keeps people coming back again and again.

This holiday season, start your shopping at small businesses! You'll find unique gifts, support your community, and enjoy a more personal shopping experience when you do. Plus, this year Shop Small Saturday falls on November 26th—mark your calendar and get ready to shop small!