By Krystle J. Bailey
One day.
Two yoga studios.
20+ small businesses.
The only thing better than the anticipation of Black Friday is Small Business Saturday. Now in its 11th year, the nationally recognized holiday encourages holiday shoppers to patronize brick and mortar, local businesses. This year, more than ever, it is imperative that we keep our holiday dollars in our communities. With toys and goods stuck on cargo ships and the flourishing of small businesses throughout the pandemic, now is the perfect time to pour your holiday dollars back into your community by supporting local entrepreneurs.
Business owners Allie Nunzi and Jessica Beyer are coming together this year to provide an opportunity to do just that. Allie, owner of Grace and Glory Yoga will be hosting a small business vendor event in Galloway from 10am-3pm. Across town, Jessica will be doing the same at her studio, Zen Landing in Mays Landing from 10am-4pm.
The duo is encouraging shoppers to plan for a full day of shopping local by attending both events on Saturday, November 27th. In the spirit of community over competition, the two yoga studio owners are celebrating each other and all the local businesses that are slated to be featured at their respective events.
“We’re both super passionate about community and collaboration. Giving small businesses a place to gather without competition can create a new culture locally,” shares Nunzi.
Zen Landing, which opened in June 2020, will be featuring local artisans and business owners, as well as highlighting the surrounding brick and mortar shops in town. Mays Landing business owners are welcome to email Jessica at hello@zenlandingyoga.com to be featured in their small business brochure that will be handed out during the day on November 27th.
“Shopping from a local person is a whole experience. You’re supporting the person who made it then giving it someone to enjoy for years to come,” explains Beyer.
“There’s reciprocity that is more than just the tangible item that you offer when you buy from a local maker,” adds Nunzi. “ It’s more of a holistic experience. You’re investing in the artist, the creator, the maker. You’re buying their ability to sustain themselves and pay their bills. Nobody in my family is getting anything from a big box store this year.”
The list of creators at the two Small Business Saturday events is abundant. Attendees will be invited to shop from candle makers, potters, clothing designers, local artists, jewelry makers, authors, and so much more.
The convenience of Amazon and online shopping is great but there is a heartwarming experience when you support a small business, gather with your community, and give a special handcrafted gift to someone that you love.
Small Business Saturday is a nationally recognized event and something that we strongly support at Shore Local. While you’re out supporting these two shopping opportunities, make sure to stop in surrounding small businesses. Ask about their products, support where you can, and be a part of a thriving South Jersey economy.
Happy Shopping!
Krystle J Bailey. Multimedia journalist, Author, Poet.
Connect with Krystle on Instagram @thedailybailey5
