Ferndale Shops Gear Up for Small Business Saturday as Excitement Builds

With Black Friday ending, it’s time for mom-and-pop stores to have a chance in the spotlight during the second annual Small Business Saturday event.

Operating under the ‘Buy Local’ approach, stores in Ferndale have taken to promoting the event, through social media and windows signs. Advertising discounts, door busters and new products, the word about Small Business Saturday is spreading, and fast.

“Last year, we didn’t really know about it; we were busy [at the store] but just the regular after Thanksgiving sort of busy,” said Emily Murray, owner of Modern Natural Baby. “I don’t think it was publicized at all as much as it is this year and we expect to be a lot busier because we’re seeing a lot of advertisements, we’re also doing our own scratch-off tickets and door prizes.”

This year, American Express will be offering a special Small Business Saturday promotion, allowing buyers to collect a one-time $25 rebate if they spend at least $25 at a small business. All those looking to participate in this promotion must first register their card on the American Express website.

“On November 26, we're asking millions of people to Shop Small at their favorite local stores and help fuel the economy,” the company writes in a statement online. “When we all shop small, it will be huge.”

“Already, it’s better; you can feel it and people are talking about it,” said Jim Monahan, owner of the Twisted Shamrock, of the event. “We’re really looking forward to tomorrow and can feel the excitement; last year, not so much but this year, yes.”

Shoppers around Ferndale are anticipating the big day with much support for the local shops.

“I like how you can go to businesses and have that personal connection,” said Jeffrey McIntyre, a Royal Oak resident. “I used to be a small business owner myself; it’s very personalized and you have that relationship with the stores.”

“We love the stores here because they’re just great,” said Andrea Jarvis, a Ferndale resident. “We enjoy keeping the money where we can and not having to fight the crowds.”

50 Ferndale businesses are participating in Small Business Saturday.

• Shop local.
• Register your American Express card here.
• Search for a complete list of participating businesses here (or just look for a sign in the door of the business while you shop).