Small Business Saturday was created in 2010 by American Express to encourage customers to shop at small, local stores. From there, the event grew. In 2012, Americans spent an estimated $5.5 billion on Small Business Saturday. To many, this year’s event on Nov. 30 fell right in line as another big shopping day along with the big-box phenomenons of Black Friday and Cyber Monday.

Part of our mission at SnapRetail is to support independent businesses and advocate shopping small within local communities. We develop our product and create educational and supportive materials to help small businesses evolve with the ever-changing economy and digital landscape.

Several SnapRetail employees shopped on Small Business Saturday and shared their thoughts below on why they are champions of small businesses.

Christian Kratsas, Digital Marketing Manager

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Why do you enjoy shopping small vs. retail chains?

I’m a big fan of change and creativity. Small businesses are progressively offering a new experience with evolving store displays, trending products and exciting promotions. You also get to know the owner and employees of a small business in return receiving an exceptional tailored experience. Not only is your visit memorable, but there is that sense of fulfillingness of supporting your local community.

What makes shopping small important to the community?

A larger portion of the money spent at a locally owned business is injected back into the economy compared to the bigger guys. It’s also important to keep storefronts occupied and support the local artisans and manufacturers that sell product in your area.

What’s your favorite local business and why?

I’m completely in love with Jerry’s Records, an independent, and nationally famous, record store in Pittsburgh, Pa. Not only can I always fulfill my record-fix but the owner, Jerry, is extremely helpful, hospitable and knowledgeable on the used vinyl industry. Not to mention, he’ll buy your old records from you, which directly supports his customer’s pockets.

Kelley Sloyer, Interactive Copywriter

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Why do you enjoy shopping small vs. retail chains?

When I shop small, I feel like I’m giving my money to the greater good. Not only is this a store, but it’s someone’s hopes, dreams and, often, their way of life. Each individual product was hand-selected with customers in mind. I feel that local retailers value each and every customer who walks through their door, which makes me value their store in return.

What makes shopping small important to the community?

Not only do small businesses care about customers, but they care about the community. More volunteering, money and time is put back right into the community.

What’s your favorite local business and why?

My favorite local business is Morninglory in Murrysville, Pa. They throw amazing events, volunteer their time to the community, have an excellent selection of products and have great customer service. I enjoy shopping, browsing the store and chatting with the employees every time I stop in.

Erika Wendel, Partnership Manager

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Why do you enjoy shopping small vs. retail chains?

Getting to know the shop owners inspires me to support the business. Once I get to know the owner, I’m more comfortable with their suggestions and am more than happy to continue visiting. Local business events are always a lot of fun especially when they collaborate with other shops. Shopping small really provides a strong sense of community adornment.

What makes shopping small important to the community?

Obviously keeping dollars within the community and getting people excited to live where they shop. It really has a snowball effect in which you begin to enjoy the area more as well as the people that live there.

What’s your favorite local business and why?

I like Pavement in Pittsburgh, Pa. a lot. The shop owner is very passionate about what she does. The aesthetic is clear and they have awesome events where champagne is served!

Stephanie Kloss, Retail Marketing Specialist

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Why do you enjoy shopping small vs. retail chains?

Shopping small is a much more personal experience for me. The individual attention and overall customer service experience plays a large part in my decision to shop small as opposed to a retail chain. You can’t beat great products and great people.

What makes shopping small important to the community?

Shopping small has such a large impact on everyone within the community. The money spent locally will be reallocated back into the community. This is very important to me.

What’s your favorite local business and why?

There are so many local businesses that I love going to. If I had to pick just one, I would say HeidiOptics Eyewear in Pittsburgh, Pa.. In the past, I went to a lot of retail chains for glasses and contacts. This year was the first time I decided to go with a small business. I can honestly say I will never go back to a retail chain again. My experience there was so pleasant. Appointments can often feel like a chore, but this was such a nice change from what I’m used to.

It’s no wonder this year’s Small Business Saturday reached an estimated $5.7 billion in spending from consumers aware of the day. This is an increase of 3.6% from 2012. At this rate, the possibilities are endless for an even bigger day next year.