Shop Havre de Grace on Small Business Saturday

HAVRE de GRACE, MD — As you're grabbing a macaron by Les Petits Bisous!, a treat from Bomboy's or a unique find at Washington Street Books, you're doing your part to support small businesses.

Major national retailers pin their hopes for a successful season — or even a successful year — on the revenue on Black Friday. Since 2010, the following Saturday has been an important opportunity for small businesses to do the same and kick off a strong holiday season of sales.

Small Business Saturday has been sponsored by American Express since its launch, and embraced by other national and local commerce groups. Sales are important, but so is the holiday reminder that local gifts, treats and services look great under the tree, too.

Find small businesses to support by using the map at ShopSmallNow.com.

“Harford County’s small businesses sustain local families, bring jobs that strengthen our economy, and often give generously in our community,” said County Executive Barry Glassman. “Small Business Saturday is a perfect opportunity to support these businesses and enjoy holiday shopping close to home.”

MORE: Harford County Supports Small Business Saturday

Last year, according to the post-holiday survey released by the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) and American Express, 95 million Americans reported shopping at small businesses on Small Business Saturday, and they spent more than $16 billion, an increase of 14 percent from the previous year.

“Small businesses across the nation are often run by the friends, family and neighbors that we know so well, so supporting them is not only personal but critical to their success,” said NFIB CEO and President Juanita Duggan.

In a recent survey by Bank of America, small business owners pinned much of their success on their local community. Sixty-two percent of those surveyed reported that residents in their community actively supported local businesses, and 47 percent said their community played an important role in the success of their business, according to Bank of America.

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