How you can cheer on local businesses

Are you struggling with how best to support and recognize your favorite small businesses in Sioux Falls? Want help breaking the “online only” shopping habit? Here’s some options to consider on how to spend your dollars locally — and also how you can show your favorite shops some love for free.

  • Commit to doing one small thing for a favored small business each week, whether it’s a purchase or a shout-out on social media.

  • Buy gift cards. You may not use the gift cards right away, but it’s a boost to the small business. And, it’s a promise that you’ll continue to be a customer later. 

  • Buy their branded merch. Support small businesses by purchasing and wearing their branded items — and even tagging them in a pic.

  • Consider “small and local” before “big and online only” businesses. When you do online shop, before hitting “buy” think about if the items in your cart could be purchased from a local business, either in-store or using their online option.

HOW TO SUPPORT SMALL BUSINESSES FOR FREE

  • Share their posts on social media. Watch for updates and inspiring posts from a business. If it resonates with you, share it. Keep in touch with your favorite businesses via Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, TikTok, etc.

  • Write a review. Help them show up online as a 5 star business to help them attract new customers.

  • Tell a family member or friend about a small business you love. Use word of mouth to support your favorite small businesses. Your family members or friends will likely trust and remember them more if it is shared personally.

  • Sign-up for newsletters. Showing support for your favorite small businesses newsletter helps them know you are a fan. It also keeps you in the loop about upcoming events and special promotions. (Want to stay connected with what’s going on at Lake Lorraine — ssign up for our email newsletter here ).

  • Say something nice. One easy way to support small businesses is simply commenting on their social post. It can be a reply about a product or even a nice hello.

  • Post a pic and give a shout out. You can support small businesses by sharing a photo of their shop and tagging them. And if you do decide to purchase something — share a quick pic.

  • Tell them thank you for being in Sioux Falls! You can easily show genuine support by sharing your gratitude and thanking them either in person or via social media.

Amy Smolik