The Christmas shopping season is almost upon us — ready or not — and the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce is teaming up with local small businesses and American Express this Saturday to get in on the action.
Like so much leftover turkey and cranberry sauce, Small Business Saturday is sandwiched between Black Friday and Cyber Monday to offer bargains and exposure for brick-and-mortar stores in the area.
“We’re simply trying to remind the public that in addition to all the big promotions going on at large retailers… there are a lot of independent small businesses in our community that deserve their attention and their support,” said David McKeehan, the chamber’s president.
The shopping holiday was cooked up by American Express on the national level in 2010, and this year customers of businesses that registered with that company will get a $10 rebate if they pay with an American Express cards. Those stores will also distribute reusable shopping tote bags and can be recognized by the special Small Business doormat they display by their door.
Kent Bourgeault, manager of Shack’s Clothing in Fitchburg, said his store has been involved since the beginning.
“It seemed like a program that was geared toward businesses just like ours,” he said as he stood between racks of men’s suits.
Sandra Fiffy opened her store, Vintage Updo’s, in August. It’s located on Central Street in Leominster and she both restores and sells vintage furniture.
“I’m hoping the extra attention will give us some exposure,” said Fiffy while drawing a wet paintbrush over a cabinet on her showroom.
On Saturday she plans to raffle off a restored piece, along with passes to one of the workshops she offers. The store also sells special paints and stencils for restoration projects.
“I think small businesses are extremely important,” said Melissa Bernier, owner of both The Art of Beads and the Dragon’s Leyr gift store. She said she’s glad to have a chance to band together with other small businesses.
Both of her stores are in Leominster, and she said she’s still figuring out how the sales will work. Most likely, The Art of Beads will have 25 percent off on select beads and station where people can make their own jewelry using samples.
Other participating businesses in Fitchburg and Leominster include A Tu Estilo By: JD, Curves of Leominster, American Harley Davidson, the Fitchburg Art Museum, Gariepy Furniture, Ashlyn Co, Goombaz, Auntie Ellen’s, Great Escape Play Café, Carmichael’s, Il Forno’s, Central MA Flags Gifts, Johnny Appleseed Visitors’ Center, Chic Sports Tailoring, Joseph’s Jewelers, Consign639, Leominster Art Center Gallery, Cornerstones, Mini-Lax Nails Spa, Norwood Fine Cabinetry, Rituals Spa Salon, Roll On America, Roots Natural Foods, Sharky’s Seafood BBQ, Sun City, Sweet Creations by Gloria and Talk of the Town.
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