Downtown gears up for Small Business Saturday

Photo of Downtown Manchester, courtesy of the Chamber of Commerce

On November 30, a number of Manchester stores and restaurants will be taking part in the 10th annual holiday shopping tradition that helps to bring communities together in support of their favorite small businesses.

Nine years ago, in the midst of the largest recession in recent memory, American Express started to promote Small Business Saturday on the Saturday after Thanksgiving (also known as the “Day After Black Friday”) to encourage people to do their holiday shopping at small, local businesses rather than heading off to crowded big-box stores that monopolize our mailboxes and televisions prior to and during the holiday season. The idea took off and has been an annual event ever since.

Downtown Manchester stores are offering the following specials on that day to show their appreciation for all of the local support they receive year-around!

River Raisin Antiques (open 10am – 7pm) – is offering 10% off store-wide, a special 20% discount on soaps and lotions,  and a free “sweet treat” for customers! In addition, live music by local duo Steamboat will be presented from 11am – noon.

Shabby on the Street (in the Mill, open 10am – 5pm) – will have 20% off store-wide.

Steelegrafix (open 10am – 2pm this Saturday only) – will be selling $5 t-shirts, and offering a 20% discount on hoodie sweatshirts.

The Manchester Historical Society (open 10am – 3pm) – will be hosting an open house at the gift shop and museum, and gift wrapping services will be offered (donations are welcomed).

Sassy Peacock consignment shop (open 10am – 6pm) – features 25% off on everything in the store.

Sabrina’s Tarot Card Readings (open noon – 4pm, located in the Mill) –  will have a $20 introductory offer on tarot card readings, (a regular ½ hr reading is $40). Gift certificates are also available!

Two Black Sheep Restaurant is offering free coffee from 9am – 2pm.

True Value Hardware (open 8am – 5pm) is extending their Black Friday specials–select items are 60% off!

Frank’s Place will be open from 11am – 11pm, with in-house specials all day.

Over the Edge will be open from 11am – midnight, and also has specials planned for the day. (The Black Friday special at Over the Edge is two $25 gift certificates for $40–a savings of 20%).

More businesses may be added to the list as the week goes on, so watch for announcements of additional participants, specials, and giveaways.

Manchester is poised for a comeback, so get ready to “shop small” this Saturday and make an impact in our local community!

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by Marsha Chartrand

Marsha Johnson Chartrand, a founder, writer, and copy editor with the Manchester Mirror, is a 50-year resident of Manchester. She has a long history of volunteer and community involvement.