Each year, the Saturday after Thanksgiving marks Small Business Saturday, a national movement that shines a spotlight on locally owned shops and entrepreneurs. The campaign began in 2010, launched by American Express to encourage shoppers to support small businesses during the busiest shopping season of the year.
Falling between Black Friday and Cyber Monday, it’s a day dedicated to celebrating the unique charm, craftsmanship, and community spirit found in small businesses across America.
Over the years, Small Business Saturday has grown into a powerful tradition. This is an opportunity for residents to invest directly in their neighbors, helping sustain local jobs and preserve the area’s distinctive culture. Shopping local means that more money stays within the community—supporting schools, public services, and other small business owners who in turn help make the local area thrive.
This holiday season, shopping at small businesses is easier than ever. From skincare and clothes to craft beer and stationery, locally owned shops have a range of gifts for everyone on your nice list. Several boutiques, gift shops, and specialty grocers offer online shopping for delivery or curbside pickup, with many featuring special discounts and deals.
Here’s a sampling of some of the many small businesses in the area to explore this Small Business Saturday, Nov. 29:
• A Bit of Carolina-Local Gifts, Souvenirs & Art-306 Hay St., 910-551-6537
• Cursive-Unique Gifts & Accessories-223 Franklin St., 910-482-0005
• Stevies on Hay-Clothing Boutique-318 Hay St., 910-229-2577
• Turner Lane-Home Decor & Gifts-242-A Hay St., 910-818-2157
• Reverie Goods and Gifts-Goods and Gifts-101 Hay St., Suite 1
• Raeford Flowers & Gifts-Florist & Gift Shop133 Harris Ave., Raeford, 910-354-3540
• Fulfillity Books & More-Bookstore-5548 Trade Street, Hope Mills, 480-808-7074
• Parliament Quilts & Crafts-Quilting Supplies & Crafts-307 S. Main Street, Raeford, 910-240-2075
• Skyland Florist & Gifts-Florist, Gifts & Accessories-105 North Bragg Boulevard, Spring Lake
• The Old Hardware Vintage Depot-Antiques & Vintage Goods-485 Carthage St., Cameron, 910-882-3690
• Wisdom Well Coffee Shop & Christian Boutique-Cafe, Boutique & Bookstore-1566 NC-24 #87, Cameron, 910-229-2692
Don’t miss the Shop Small Saturday Vendors Market, also happening on Saturday, Nov. 29, at North South Brewing Company on 304 Williams St. There will be many great local vendors there selling handmade items that make perfect gifts. The market will run from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Supporting these small shops helps strengthen Fayetteville’s economy while giving holiday shoppers the chance to find gifts that truly stand out. Whether you prefer browsing the charming stores downtown or shopping online in cozy pajamas, each purchase makes a difference.
Be sure to follow your favorite shops on social media for any deals or specials they will be running for the holiday season. Don’t forget about all the great bakeries, cafes, and restaurants that need some local love as well!
For even more local businesses, visit the Greater Fayetteville Chamber’s business directory at chamber.faybiz.com/list. Raeford-Hoke Chamber of Commerce’s website with their business directory is at https://rhchamber.com/business-directory/, and Hope Mills Area Chamber of Commerce’s list of great businesses can be found at https://www.hopemillschamber.org/membership/member-directory.
Support small businesses this month, on Nov. 29, and all year round.