CHICAGO – As holiday shoppers flock to big name stores, malls and online for gifts, small business owners want you to consider them, too.
Small Business Saturday is being celebrated in Rogers Park where business owners without storefronts got the chance to showcase their merchandise.
One Rogers Park Business Alliance Office typically used for small business training welcomed in several local entrepreneurs who operate home based businesses.
“We have 20 businesses in here. Small, independently owned businesses that we’re helping promote,” Executive Director of Rogers Park Business Alliance Sandi Price said.
Organizers described the setup as a mercadito, with vendors selling various handmade items, such as winter wear, jewelry and artwork, all in celebration of Small Business Saturday, started by American Express in 2010.
“It builds comradery. They learn from each other, they get to meet new business owners in the same vein as them and, hopefully, build some sort of relationship and maybe open a storefront together,” Price explained.
As a small business owner, Emma Ramirez, owner of Arte Ecléctico, said staying in her neighborhood builds a strong sense of community.
“I prefer to stay close to home, get to know my neighbors. As I do it more regularly, I start to see people I recognize and they recognize me, and it’s just a fun part to be local instead of trying to hustle around the city,” Ramirez said.
Several businesses with storefronts in Rogers Park also participated in Small Business Saturday and offered shoppers deals on merchandise and services.
“Ten percent off for the first ten clients that came in,” said Mado Mbasso, owner of Mado’s African Hair Braiding Salon. “Everybody is striving to be up there, so it’s important to support the small businesses’ strive so they can get to where they wish to be.”
Mbasso told WGN News she also owns other businesses and encourages other not to be afraid to start small and pursue their dreams.
“It’s doable. That’s all I can say. Don’t limit yourself,” she said. “I believe if I can do it, anyone can do it, too.”
