Havre de Grace Welcomes Shoppers for Small Business Saturday

Shoppers in Havre de Grace are in for deals and treats on Saturday, Nov. 24.

This marks the third year for "Small Business Saturday," a campaign American Express created in 2010 to put the national spotlight on small businesses after Black Friday.

“Small Business Saturday is a day for everyone,” Brigitte Peters, marketing and tourism manager for the City of Havre de Grace, said during the Nov. 19 City Council meeting, where she was one of three champions of local business speaking about the event.

“People come and shop downtown because they want a different experience than they get in the mall,” Meghan Simmons, economic development manager for Havre de Grace, said at the council meeting. Simmons encouraged businesses to consider perks like hot chocolate or gift-wrapping.

Indeed, some retailers are extending their hours and running specials on Saturday; for details, see the list provided by Havre de Grace Main Street. Among them: Blue Earth Leather says "pick your own discount on any purchase," Wonder Toys is staying open until 9 p.m., and Simply Art & Gift Gallery will have salsa and jams on hand plus 15 to 25 percent off art and ornaments. 

Pat Donovan of the Havre de Grace Chamber of Commerce recommended museum gift shops for unique items, antique stores for estate jewelry and art galleries for prints. She also suggested dining downtown.

“It is so very important that we support our local merchants who continue day in and day out to support our various charity events and causes,” Donovan said at the council meeting. “We are so very fortunate to live in our wonderful city of Havre de Grace. Shop locally!”

What are your plans for Small Business Saturday? Tell us in the comments!