Embracing the Power of Small Business: How Your Choices Can Shape Our Local Economy in 2025

Spring symbolizes renewal, and it’s the perfect time to think about where we spend our money. In 2024, many small businesses struggled to survive against various challenges. However, as we look forward to 2025, it's clearer than ever that supporting local businesses is crucial. When you choose to shop small, you are not just making a purchase; you are directly boosting your community's vitality and helping these businesses grow.

Your choices as a consumer have significant effects, impacting not just individual business owners but the entire local economy. Each time you make a purchase, you are voting for the type of community you want to foster.

The Importance of Supporting Local

When you buy from a small business, you are helping someone achieve their dreams and support their family. These businesses play a vital role in their communities, and their prosperity directly affects local economic health.

Research indicates that for every $100 spent at local retailers, about $68 stays in the community. In contrast, only $43 remains when dollars are spent at national chains. This means each time you shop locally, you're helping fund community projects, create jobs, and maintain the unique character of your neighborhood.

Our original location in Liberty, MO.

The Ripple Effect of Your Choices

Every time you decide to shop at a local business, you set off a ripple effect that benefits everyone. Small businesses tend to hire local workers, which helps create more jobs and economic stability. Furthermore, these businesses often give back to the community by supporting local charities, sponsoring local events, and collaborating with other nearby enterprises.

Local shops frequently offer unique items you won’t find at larger retailers, making your shopping experience feel special. For example, we feature gorgeous jewelry from a local designer, Delta, and all of our graphics are made by Awkward Tif, a sports mom who heads up many school organizations for her kids.

Why 2025 Can Be Your Year to Make a Difference

After facing difficulties in 2024, small businesses have learned valuable lessons and are coming back stronger. They are ready to welcome you again, but they need your help. Your support can help them recover and thrive.

In 2024 we were pushed out of our original location by greed. The individual who owned the historic buildings next to the one we rented let them fall into disrepair until they were deemed unsafe. They were then demolished. This led to our inventory being ruined by construction dust, our traffic going from bustling to nonexistent overnight, and a lack of empathy from people in a position to help that I had never experienced. I had to take the pennies that I had left, and I was so lucky to find The Parlor a new home. The situation took my beautiful dream and twisted it into a knot in my stomach.

Now it's been nine months and my dream is coming to life again. We have a beautiful space, my goal of being 50% vintage is officially a reality, and there are many more great things on the horizon, but we have not been immune to the ripple effect of what we went through.

Now is the time to decide where and how you want to spend your dollars. Search for local shops, artisans, and service providers that align with your values. Your conscious choices play a crucial role in shaping the future of your local economy.

The demolished buildings that changed the trajectory of everything.

How to Choose Local This Spring

• Explore Local Markets: Farmers' markets and craft fairs offer fresh food and unique products directly from local makers. It’s a fantastic chance to support artisans and learn about their stories.

  
  

• Research Online: Many small businesses have moved online, making it easier than ever to shop locally from home. A quick search can uncover various shops and their offerings right in your neighborhood.

  
  

• Spread the Word: Encourage friends and family to support local businesses by sharing your experiences. A simple conversation or a positive review can make a big difference.

  
  

• Attend Local Events: Participate in community fairs, festivals, and other events where local businesses showcase their goods. It’s a fun way to see what your community has to offer and enjoy social connections.

  
  

The Power of Your Voice

One of the most effective ways to help small businesses is by sharing your experiences. Leaving a positive review or recommending a business to friends amplifies community support. Your advocacy can allow these businesses to flourish, ensuring they remain part of your community.

Remember, you have the power to change the landscape of your local economy. By making thoughtful shopping choices, you can help shape a brighter future for your community.

A Call to Action for a Thriving Community

As spring arrives, take the opportunity to reshape our local economies. Shopping small is more than a trend; it's a crucial decision that impacts the future of our communities.

The challenges faced in 2024 have taught us valuable lessons about resilience and support. As we transition into 2025, let’s unite to uplift the local businesses that add vibrancy and uniqueness to our lives. It's not just about competing with larger corporations; it's about fostering our local identity and helping it grow.

So, whether you’re shopping in person or online this spring, remember that your support is transformative. Every dollar you spend can help create new opportunities—not just for us as a business, but for the entire community. Let’s collaborate to make 2025 a remarkable year!

Thank you for your support,

Jen

Our refreshed logo for new beginnings!