When Times Got Tough, You Rose To The Challenge

It's almost Christmas 2020, and I can't help but reflect back over the past year filled with crises, uncertainty, unrest and concern. During the last nine months and this holiday season....you, the strong, tough, and determined business owners, have more than just "shown up", you've chosen to SHINE.

Think Local First: Spend Where It Matters This Holiday Season

"Spending smart" is more than a phrase. It's about the bigger picture - not just what store you walk into for a special occasion, or which big box chain is most convenient, but a deliberate, consistent choice. I want each of my shopping decisions this year to help fuel a dream; remind the owner their contribution and hard work does not go unnoticed; help to keep alive the passion a young entrepreneur has for their company. Those are real and tangible benefits that your dollars can offer.

Make This A Local November - Spend With Real People this Month!

Small businesses are the pulse of your city; my small town; our unique corners of this planet. Don't take the easy way out of just choosing a familiar logo or chain eatery because they are more recognizable! Remember the people and places that built your neighborhood.

"Where We Spend Now Is What Will Be Around In the Future"

Our independent businesses have been through a lot recently. From learning they had to cease operations back in March to waiting anxiously for news of reopening protocols to completing paperwork and plans and information to submit to local governments just so they could get back to work, 2020 has been one hell of a year already.

When America Reopens, Who Will You Be Supporting?

Welcome friends, to another installment of posts and notes from the Facebook page of Go Independent, Shop Small (Anywhere USA) during the second half of April. While I don't normally reshare those posts on this blog, so much was happening during the challenging days of March, April and May as our world came to a standstill. Limited perhaps, by so little ordinary interactions? I felt such a connection to my followers and readers that I've been adding some of the posts into mini-collections here as well. I hope you enjoy catching up.

"What Big Box Savings Have Cost"

So you take me for a ride,

Through the town, just to see;

And it hurts reading "For Rent",

Where busy Main Street used to be.

Support Your Community This Mother’s Day

Mother's Day is almost here and of course, you want something wonderful and sweet for Mom. Keeping in mind that due to our current pandemic situation some places may be a bit limited in choices or shopping options, however, most small businesses are offering creative solutions to make your mission super easy!

Small Business, Buying Local And Our Changing Economy | Notes April 2020

Articles and notes focusing on small business and navigating the murky waters into which we were all thrown as of mid-March, when America began shutting down. There are thousands of stories out there; explanations of the difficult decisions and choices, along with heartfelt (and tragic) reflections by entrepreneurs; since I feel so much can be learned from these times I will be adding more links to an upcoming blog post as well. (As I usually do with my Notes, there are a few older articles which seemed worth passing along as well).

"Small Business Love" Go Independent, Shop Small (Anywhere USA)

Posts from the Go Independent, Shop Small (Anywhere USA) Facebook page: In the middle of our shutdowns, mandatory isolation and new life of quarantine, people are beginning to miss the things they may have got away from. We took each other for granted perhaps, failing sometimes to seek out our friendly proprietors and make the choices which supported their hard work as well as our own city services. and sense of urgency towards our neighbors and longtime favorite restaurants .... maybe, it's time for change. (mid-April 2020)

Inspiration For Small Business Owners by Live Local USA

The arrival of April brought us into the second month of shuttered businesses, people socially-distancing at home under quarantine orders....and unfamiliar territory. While so many independent retailers desperately needed sales and customers, new guidelines had shut down most businesses deeming them non-essential, and yet, America rallied together anyway.

Words of Wisdom | "Spend It Here Keep It Here"

Every so often an article or news item leaps out at me with a particular phrase or statement that seems worth sharing. This one highlights one of the principles I believe is so essential to not just life but the recover and mending of our communities which will need to take place in the months ahead. Businesses must be more than just a company, a name on a building or a means to profit.

March 2020 | "Small Business Strong" from Live Local USA

Our current health/financial scenario is a true wake up call, one which has spurred many of you to mobilize and unite. Over the last week we've seen efforts launched by both organizations and ordinary people who have stepped up to assist entrepreneurs in the community, educate area residents about the value of local spending, and pass on the message that right now is a critical time for small businesses everywhere.

In the Midst of Turmoil, Universality Could Be What Unites Us

We've been given an opportunity friends, did you know that? Appearing in the midst of a global crisis there is a chance for unified understanding and community-driven solutions - a time when across the country, we the small business owners, local government leaders and area residents are all facing virtually the same situation. (I shudder at the thought of adding in "unprecedented scenario", because it seems that phrase has been uttered multiple times by every news channel on the planet, but I'm going to use it because it pretty accurately describes our current climate).

We Reached A Milestone on March 22nd, 2020......Thank You

We're honored to have reached a milestone....hoping we have touched our readers and perhaps helped in a small way to shift perceptions or opened minds. Sharing a couple of images from back at the beginning and this was one of our earliest images from January 2nd, 2013 ~ thanks so much for following us 💗 #LiveLocalUSA #5000followers

Spend Smart This March By Supporting Your Independent Retailers

Make this month a time for focus on your favorite local businesses - not just saying words or sharing images, but really following through with the actions! Help keep the lights on in your tiny shops, fabulous retailers and charming restaurants which make your community a better place to live.

Share The Love of Independent Retailers for Valentine's Day

It's the month of February and to us, nothing says "love" quite like family-owned, independently-operated establishments. What you may think is just a small purchase can really add up to BIG SUPPORT for the beloved businesses where you live. Being lucky enough to live in a city with a wide variety of choices sure is a lot more fun!

Small Business Love | News & Notes (Hello 2020!)

I'm passionate about our independent retailers; dedicated to speaking out and perhaps playing a small role in putting the focus back on locally-owned and operated companies; a fan of businesses with flavor and history. Articles which highlight the success of the people who pour their heart and soul into a dream, along with sometimes, the struggles and sadness, come across news sites and social media with increasing frequency and I feel almost a responsibility to share and pass them along.

Choices Shape The Future: How The Decisions We Make Affect Our Communities

I recently heard about a small town where the majority of independent businesses have closed as the residents are moving away due to lack of jobs. Included on the list of challenges facing this community is declining tax revenue, lack of events or activities, few dining or shopping options and dwindling membership in civic and local organizations. There are even now so few full-time residents in the town that for the first time in decades, the fire department may be forced to close down.