LIMA, Ohio (WLIO) — The weekend after Thanksgiving is one of the busiest shopping times of the year, and local small businesses are hoping residents will think of them this holiday season and beyond.
Many small business owners in the area are friends and neighbors who have taken on the challenge of providing goods and services to meet community needs. They are often called the backbone of America and rely on community support to thrive.
Miranda Oden, co-owner of Leaf & Luxe, emphasized the importance of shopping locally. “When you shop local, all of your money stays local. We are all local people. We own these small, little businesses, and we can't do it without the support of the community,” she said. “Especially right now, with some economic things happening and people worried about that type of stuff, it’s so important to support local because if you don't support us, we won't be here.”
Julie Klingler of the Lima Allen County Chamber of Commerce echoed that sentiment. “When our community chooses to shop at that favorite boutique or that favorite restaurant, they're really supporting the backbone of economic vibrancy right here in Allen County,” she said.
This weekend marks Black Friday and Small Business Saturday — an opportunity to find unique gifts while supporting local entrepreneurs. Shoppers are encouraged to stop by their favorite small businesses and discover the treasures.
