Stuffed!
That's how you feel on Thursday.
Once the turkey is picked clean, the dishes are done and the last bite of pie sitting in a pool of melted ice cream on your dessert plate, most savvy shoppers start thinking about Black Friday. You know the one … long lines, people shoving people out of the way, fighting over that last toy or game!!
Well … we've got a better idea!
If you're thinking of moving to a new neighborhood, now is the time to consider Small Business Saturday as your shopping day of choice. Small Business Saturday is the day after Black Friday and is a great day to get to know the shops, cafés, boutiques and other offerings of your new neighborhood.
Take a leisurely stroll down the streets, duck into a doorway of a store you've been meaning to visit but just haven't gotten around to, and find unique gifts for your family and friends.
Small businesses are what make communities special. When you check out a new neighborhood, you want to know that small businesses can thrive there. It is in the corner café that you meet new friends, find out what's happening in town and get to know your neighbors.
Planning to check out the small businesses in a neighborhood you plan to move to can give you a sense of connection to that community. Meet the shop owners. Chat with the servers in the restaurant where you have brunch to see what they like about the community. Ask patrons that seem to be regulars where to find the best fresh fruits and vegetables. Look for posters that indicate when schools, recreation centers and local houses of worship have special holiday events.
As you walk around, observe if establishments have Facebook stickers on their doors. Connect with them online to find out about specials, or read what others are saying about them.
While you're there, post a positive recommendation on Yelp or TripAdvisor. Your new friends and neighbors will appreciate the boost.
If you plan to move a small business into the neighborhood, observing how other local shops and eateries handle the day can give you ideas for planning your own Small Business Saturday next year.
As always, if you have questions about a community, your local real estate professional can give you information and resources to help you connect, learn and become a part of your new neighborhood.
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