The tremendous impact small business owners have on their local communities cannot be understated. Their service, knowledge, and charm lead to the best, most personalized experiences, and always keep us coming back for more. At Promoboxx, we have so much love for independent retailers and strive to provide them with the tools they need to become better marketers.
This Saturday, November 29th marks the 4th annual Small Business Saturday, started in 2010 by American Express, which celebrates small business owners across the nation and encourages consumers to buy local.
I for one owe a lot of thanks to the local retailers in Boston. When I moved from San Diego to Boston close to a year ago, it was difficult not having familiar places to go when I was looking for an item. Through local recommendations, I’ve had the wonderful opportunity to find a new set of favorite retailers. The lasting impression they’ve left on me and other members of the community is difficult to measure.
One of my favorite retailers is Follow the Honey. This quaint shop offers raw honey and bee themed gifts from around the world. The staff is incredibly knowledgeable, passionate, and even provides tastings from their honey bar. They also have two vats of honey on tap, so you can bring a jar and fill up!
Here are a few more local favorites from the Promoboxx team:
“It’s part home improvement paint shop, part artist supply shop. It’s one of the few independent shops that can hang with the big brand backed shops on Newbury Street.” – Ben Carcio
“What makes Marathon Sports so special? Could it be their hand written notes encouraging my husband and I in our training? Or that they spend hours with us to select the perfect running shoe? Or maybe it’s just that fact that we can stop in at anytime to hang out with other runners.” – Sonciary
“It’s a quaint little shop on Charles Street that has the best salted caramels, and pretty glittered handmade chocolate boxes for any occasion. They also have great espresso, in case you’re prone to a sugar crash after consuming their chocolates.” – Janet
“Incredibly knowledgeable about their products, they remember you when you walk in. They always suggest new wines based on what you like or order your favorite bottle in a case and call when it gets in.” – Dan
“The store’s entire experience is built around the customer. They do so much to keep up with a good selection and are very creative with everything they do…there’s just something about buying shoes from a secret store in the back of a mini mart.” – Chris
“It’s aesthetic is so unique and cutting edge . A shoe store hidden behind an automatic door that looks like a vending machine. The variety of shoes and articles of clothing are very original.” – Audrey
“I don’t know much about home improvement and putting things together, but these guys sure do. Whether you are changing a lightbulb or hanging up your holiday decorations these guys have you covered. Not only do they make great, helpful recommendations, but they also tell you what you shouldn’t waste your money on. I respect that!” – Sofia
“Their burritos are so good, I refuse to order anything else from the menu and risk the chance of it not being of equal excellence. They always have the freshest ingredients and their guac… their guac!” – Catherine
“This little store is packed with so many unusual and unique products. I love browsing their shelves for inspiration and learning about their finds from their cheerful staff. I never leave empty handed!” – Jennifer
“Landry’s has a really knowledgeable staff, and they’re always willing to help find the gear you need. I also love that they have a super helpful maintenance team & they organize weekly bike rides!” – Anna
“Incredible selection of craft beer and hot sauce. Loyalty program, tastings, monthly newsletters, and an extremely knowledgable and helpful staff. They really set themselves apart from the competition.” – Don
“Affordable prices, loyalty program (buy 7 roll-ups, get 1 free), friendly staff that now remembers my order (I probably go there too much)” – Ben McBratney
“They have an IMAX and trapeze, along with burgers and ice cream. What more could you want while shopping for furniture?” – Matt
“I could spend my whole Saturday in this tiny store browsing (and sampling!) all of their specialty wines, cheeses, candies, etc. The staff is so helpful (but not pushy) and I have discovered many “favorites” from their recommendations!” – Taylor
“Sofi Madison, owner of two-year-old artisanal shop opened in the south end of Boston to support emerging food+gift makers who quit their 9-5 to follow their passion and make something the loved. They have everything from jewelry to candles to food – all of it makes a perfect gift.” – Emma
“Flour is, hands down, one of the most consistent, delicious, and reliable dining destinations in Boston. Everything is prepared in-house and their staff is just as pleasant as the mouth-watering pastries and flavorful food they serve. I often face the burden of having to select only *one* pastry when stopping by. Disclaimer: living down the street from Flour has indirectly correlated to gaining 5-6 pounds of happy weight.” – Johanna
“I love giving people gifts; I hate finding people gifts. This small shop in Davis Square has been my go-to for local crafts, hilarious printed cards, and other unique hipster bric-a-brac fit for anyone.” – Andrew
