Small Business Saturday Is Keeping It Local In Doylestown Borough

DOYLESTOWN, PA — Throughout Bucks County and across the nation, shoppers will be keeping it local on Saturday.

Small Business Saturday will refocus the Black Friday holiday shopping kickoff from big-box national retailers to locally owned and operated mom-and-pop stores, which contribute to the local economy's tax base.

Shops and small businesses will be open throughout the day, offering in-store specials, refreshments, and unique gifts for that special someone on your list.

In Doylestown Borough, shops will welcome customers with a smile and fully stocked shelves brimming with merchandise and gifts.

At the Paper Unicorn, shoppers can pick up this year’s Doylestown holiday ornament spotlighting the beloved County Theater, recreated from an original watercolor by Bucks County’s own M. Catherine Bateman. Each ornament is individually crafted in Bucks County and available only at The Paper Unicorn.

The County Theater ornament available exclusively at the Paper Unicorn.

(Paper Unicorn)

In addition, shop owner Patty White, who has owned and operated the store for the past nine years, will be offering a shop filled with “gifts for everyone on your list,” from home decor and stationary, to fragrances, handmade jewelry, bath and body products, and fashion accessories.

In-store specials on Small Business Saturday include 20 percent off boxed Christmas cards, buy three ornaments and get the fourth for free (excluding the Doylestown ornament), and a free gift with a $50 purchase of Inis.

One of the store's top holiday sellers is its Frasier Fir by Thymes, also known as the scent of Christmas. “Everyone loves it because it smells just like a Christmas tree,” said White. “And it comes in everything - candles, diffusers, lotion, room and tree sprays, and soap. We have some really great stuff,” she said.

“Shop small every day, not just Small Business Saturday,” encourages White. “Whether you’re decorating for Christmas, looking for that special gift, or shopping for that special someone in your life, you will find it here.”

Down the street at the Doylestown Bookshop, Small Business Saturday offerings will include free refreshments from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., free raffles on the hour from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., a book signing by guest author Jon McGoran from 2 to 4 p.m., and live holiday music with Hay Sugar from 2 to 4 pm

In addition, its Lahaska location will be hosting a book signing with author Carli J. Corson.

Some of the hot sellers this holiday season at the bookshop include Wicked-themed journals, gifts, and, of course, the books.

The Doylestown Bookshop on South Main Street. (Jeff Werner/Patch)

The Paper Unicorn. (Jeff Werner/Patch)

“We also carry all of the newest releases, best sellers, and holiday favorites for all ages," said Krisy Elisii, director of marketing, events and schools. "Our gift buyer has curated a wide selection of Christmas gifts, wrapping paper, cards, Advent calendars, and some new 'Doylestown, PA' holiday merchandise, which we love. And there are always gift cards if you are unsure of what kind of gift to give. Our gift cards are redeemable in-store and online."

Customers can also shop from the comfort of their own home at www.doylestownbookshop.com where they can purchase or order books and gift cards. The bookshop ships to just about anywhere in the world. They will also wrap gifts and offer free shipping on orders of $50 or more.

The Doylestown and Lahaska Bookshops have also teamed up with the Berenstains to offer five unique collections of Berenstain Bear books not available at other bookstores.

“When you shop locally, you are keeping your money in the community. Independent bookstores recirculate approximately 29.3 percent of their money locally, whereas certain online retailers only recirculate 5.8 percent," said Elisii. "You are creating local jobs, conserving tax dollars, and investing in entrepreneurship. You are also creating more choice. Our buyers curate what we carry in our stores based partly on what our community likes. Local businesses carry a wider array of unique products because we buy for our own individual market."

Here's Another Way To Keep It Local

The "Holly Jolly Sip & Stroll" returns to downtown Doylestown in December with a cheerful celebration of local shopping, seasonal sips, and holiday spirit.

Mark your calendars for Dec. 4, 11, and 18 from 5 to 8 p.m. and join the Doylestown business community for the celebration.

Downtown streets will sparkle with lights, music, and merriment as more than 30 local restaurants and businesses open their doors for an evening of festive fun. Shoppers are invited to enjoy exclusive in-store specials, complimentary beverages and treats, and a chance to discover unique gifts while supporting local businesses.

New this year will be the Holly Jolly Scavenger Hunt.

Shoppers are invited to follow the trail of the Christmas Pickle hidden throughout downtown businesses. Start by picking up a Holly Jolly Passport at The Paper Unicorn or Monkey’s Uncle.

Collect at least six stamps and enter to win a festive holiday gift basket stuffed with goodies, gift cards, and surprises from local shops.

For more information, click here.