Merchants in downtown Lafayette want holiday shoppers to know they have something to offer.
The shops are celebrating Small Business Saturday this weekend. It’s designed to draw customers to mom-and-pop stores on Main Streets across America.
Diane Gee owns Grateful Heart Gallery and Gifts. She says while she and her neighboring storeowners don’t have everything, they have something unique.
“We’re not going to have the deep discounts or sought after electronics, but what we do have is a personal relationship with everyone who comes in the door,” she says. “You get the kind of care and concern and assistance, I hope, in the small businesses that harkens back to the best of Christmas traditions.”
She says nearly all of the stores taking part in Lafayette have a sale or are giving away a small gift with purchases.
Sara Yelich is the small business program manager with Greater Lafayette Commerce. She says American Express kicked off the event a few years ago.
“Small business owners live in our community and their children go to school in our community,” she says. “Getting people into their shops and meeting these owners can really increase that quality of life and sense of community within Greater Lafayette.”
More than two dozen restaurants and stores are taking part this Saturday with special offers and discounts. Santa and Mrs. Claus also will be visiting downtown Lafayette.
A list of those participating in Small Business Saturday and special offers is HERE.