"The engine that drives the economy:" Holiday shoppers give back on Small Business Saturday
MILWAUKEE -- Shoppers may be buying big this holiday weekend but Saturday, they are thinking small.
Small Business Saturday
Finding that special something in a shop that's one of a kind.
"I like different stuff so I'm looking for something different to throw on the Christmas tree, put under the Christmas tree," said Rose Wilson, holiday shopper.
'Tis the season to support locally owned businesses.
"They don't get a lot of exposure like the bigger corporate stores do," said Qiana Wilson.
Small Business Saturday
Shoppers flocked to the Third Ward, rallying behind Small Business Saturday.
"Business has been amazing," said the Owner of 'Inspired,' Terry Peterson.
Terry Peterson and her husband opened Inspired just 6-weeks ago.
"It's been pretty much overwhelming. The response and people are super excited to see something 'boutique-y' like this in the Third Ward," said Peterson.
Like many store owners, they are following their dream. Their visions of selling furnishings, home decor and gifts have now become reality.
Small Business Saturday
"I think we have a little niche to fill and we have a lot of layers of what we do here. It's not something you can just find online," said Peterson.
Mayor Tom Barrett
"It's important to frequent those businesses so they can be successful," said Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett.
Mayor Barrett was among the many shoppers spending his money locally.
"This is the time of year where they can really pay the bills," said Barrett.
It's a welcomed task he makes sure to do often, especially considering the huge economic impact it has.
"We know that 2/3 of the jobs being are created by small businesses so small businesses are really the engine that drives the economy in Milwaukee right now," said Barrett.
A day of unplugging from the internet shopping and stepping out of the box stores to highlight the gems right in our own neighborhood.
Small Business Saturday
Local shops have so many unique items to offer. Owners hope the traffic and exposure on Small Business Saturday will help create a buzz and interest well beyond this holiday shopping weekend.