Small Business Saturday This Weekend

Local shoppers looking to get a jump on the holiday gift giving season may not have to travel very far to find that perfect gift. Highland County Chamber of Commerce executive director Tiffany White spoke about efforts to promote consumers to shop close to home, which benefits the local economy.

“Small Business Saturday began in 2010 by American Express. They started this as a day to focus on shopping local and supporting small businesses. This year, Small Business Saturday will take place on November 29^th. It’s the Saturday after Thanksgiving.”

“The Chamber has decided to jump on this opportunity, and to really promote this event, to help visitors and residents to shop local, and support our local businesses.

“Some of the items that people can find, of course, are maple items, that’s what we’re known for here in Highland. There’s also a lot of woodworking, different fabric crafts, pottery – some of the locations also have some regionally made soaps and lotions. We also have electronics, different food items.”

“The shops are going to be open around the county, not just here in Monterey, and we have provided all those shops with a little sign for the Small Business Saturday, so you can point out those businesses that are going to be open that day, by that sign.”

Ms. White also spoke about upcoming Wintertide activities.

“Wintertide weekend is going to take place on the 5^th through the 7^th of December. Our local shops will be open, and there will also be a tree lighting ceremony on Saturday, December 6^th, at 6 pm on the courthouse lawn. There will also be angels on the tree, so we encourage everyone to come out and get an angel, and buy some gifts for some local residents.

“Following the tree lighting ceremony will be a concert down at the Monterey United Methodist Church – that will begin at 7 pm. The Holiday Treasures Market here at The Highland Center and open house will also be taking place Friday and Saturday. There’s also going to be an open house at Ginseng Mountain Store, and as I said earlier, our local shops will be open, and we’re encouraging everybody to get out and shop locally, and get all your holiday shopping done.”