In conjunction with Small Business Saturday on November 28th, the Maryland Department of Commerce encourages each Maryland resident to explore their neighborhood and support local businesses all year long. Show us how you shop small on Twitter at #ShopSmall @MDBiz.
Along the Western Shore of the Chesapeake Bay lies Maryland's three most southern counties. Calvert, Charles, and St. Mary's offer a variety of small town history and charm, satisfying the spontaneous day-trip or a week-long vacation. With minimal big-box stores and only one mall in all the region, small businesses are at the core of these waterfront economies.
"Our local towns have really done a great job of bringing in unique shops, culture, arts, restaurants and bars that draw people in," said Steve Wall, Commerce's Regional Manager for Southern Maryland. "Combining these stops with significant events during the holidays in Leonardtown, La Plata, North Beach and Solomons Island, our businesses do extremely well. Our events have become so popular that they now bring in thousands of peoplelocal businesses really benefit from word of mouth."
Here are our top picks for this Saturday's festivities in Southern Maryland.
Calvert County
With nearly 40 businesses, Lusby in Calvert County is encouraging all residents and businesses to spread the word about shopping locallynot only on Small Business Saturday, but all year long. Look out for happy hour specials at various stores this Saturday and an official tree lighting celebration on December 6th.
Local retailers and restaurants are prepared for the upcoming surge of gift certificate and gift basket requests. And whether it's the local nail salon or KBS Shoes, Lusby businesses take pride in employing residents from the immediate areaan endeavor that fits in with the community's "Keep Your Neighbors Working" tagline.
"It's important to buy from local businesses because we really support each other," said Nance Simmons, President of the Lusby Business Association. "Our businesses understand the importance of giving back to the community. Investing in a business is like reinvesting in the neighborhood."
Stay tuned to ShopLusby.com for upcoming events.
Charles County
Founded in the late 1800's, the Town of La Plata has hundreds of small businesses that serve the southern portion of the state. This year, the second annual #ShopLaPlata celebration will take place with more than 50 participating businesses, including Essenza Escape Day Spa, BritStyle Hair, Colonial Liquors, and Marie's Diner and Gift Shop.
Santa is scheduled to appear on the La Plata Polar Express bright and early Saturday morning at the train station museum. A business holiday decorating contest is underway and will be up for voting. Local Southern Maryland artisans and crafters will be featured at the Holi-Pop Gallery and the farmer's market. Free performances, giveaways, and more!
"This year's shop local event is even bigger and better, with a 47% increase in total participation!" said Christine Parker, Shop La Plata Celebration Event Coordinator.
Learn about the upcoming activities on the La Plata Business Association's Facebook page.
St. Mary's County
Kicking off the holiday season this Friday with the popular "Christmas on the Square" event, Leonardtown is the perfect place to find unique gifts for everyone on your list. After you take a ride in a horse drawn carriage, or a motorized sleigh, head back downtown Saturday morning for some in-store specials and incentives.
The 300-year-old town has more than two dozen small shops waiting to welcome you with open arms. Visit St. Mary's recommends hopping over to Fenwick Street and purchasing some local handmade artwork, secondhand books and music, and a whole lot of antiques. The downtown area is a craftsman's paradise, offering the North End Gallery, Leonardtown Arts Center, Crazy for Ewe yarn shop, and the Craft Guild Shop.
"Small businesses help provide character for the town. Not only do small shops offer unique items that big box retailers can't provide, but they excel at customer service," said Valerie Deptula, Small Business Saturday Committee Chair for the Leonardtown Business Association. "If there's a product that isn't on my shelves, I can order it for youcustomers have a say in our shops. Leonardtown has a real sense of community."
Follow along for updates on Leonardtown's Small Business Saturday Facebook page.
