Saluda NC Celebrates Small Business Saturday

Small Business Saturday, now in its third year, falls between black Friday and cyber Monday on Thanksgiving weekend. As Black Friday Chain stores and cyber Monday online shopping began to dominate seasonal retail sales, small businesses struggled to retain their customers. In 2009 Small Business Saturday was created to recognize small businesses as the heart of the American economy and encourage customer support in uncertain economic times.  Last year over 100 million consumers came together to "shop small" and celebrate all that small local businesses contribute to their communities, and the overall quality of life for American cities.

Understanding the importance of locality in purchase choices became clear as businesses closed in the recession and communities suffered the loss of Main Street vitality and that essential feeling of "hometown".

Saluda NC is a classic example of an American small town, but unique in being able to retain a Main Street comprised entirely of small, independent businesses. Just like good wine reflects the flavor of the grapes in the region where they are grown, Saluda's local small businesses reflect the beauty and character of their community.

By supporting these individual entrepreneurs, the beauty and unique characteristics of Saluda have been maintained and the quality of life is as desirable as ever. Each choice to buy food from regional farmers and products from local independent businesses over corporate conglomerates contributes to the health of the community and the lifestyle that is the heart of small towns .

Today in Saluda, both of the century-old general stores are open and full of merchandise and personal service.  You can also explore and shop in art studios, craft galleries, unique boutique shops, wine shops, try out locally baked goods (from one of the best bakeries anywhere on the planet), or enjoy great coffee. Spend the entire day (or Weekend) in Saluda, eat lunch at your choice of  a variety of restaurants and finish up the day with live music  and an exceptional dinner at the Purple Onion of other venues.

On Saturday you may also purchase homegrown produce and handmade products from local small farmers at the holiday tailgate market from 1-3 PM in the West Main parking lot. "Set a spell" on one of the main Street benches and enjoy the cool, fresh mountain air.

Saluda has, for decades, been a favorite weekend getaway for visitors from Central and Eastern NC cities like Charlotte, and a "First Stop" for visitors driving up from Florida on I-26. 

Small Business Saturday in Saluda NC is November 24, 2012. Find more information about Saluda including links to shops, galleries and lodging on the Saluda NC Visitor Guide. 

Saluda information and photos provided by  Shelley Dekay, owner of Heartwood Gallery, 21 East Main Street in downtown Saluda NC.