Every year, big department stores gear up for Black Friday, but the nationally-recognized Small Businesses Saturday promotion is helping shoppers and vendors in the Omaha area.
Shoppers this Saturday at Bancroft Street Market said they were looking for something local and thoughtful for people on their holiday gift list.
“You’re really supporting the people in your community when you support small businesses,” said Jasmyn Wichert.
Wichert and her husband Jacob are “makers” or craftspeople specializing in coffee at their shop Amateur Coffee.
“Together we kinda make a dream team; it’s kinda fun. It’s a lot of fun actually,” laughed Wichert.
They’ve joined with several other local craftsmen for Handmade Omaha’s Winter Art and Craft Bazaar.
“It’s just much more low-key than a big Black Friday,” said local shopper Kristin Rock.
“The money stays in Omaha and plus you’re supporting all these makers, all these small businesses in one place today,” said Rachel Ourada.
Ourada is both the owner of Rachel O’s Fabulous Whimsy and the co-director of Handmade Omaha. She believes the heart of small business is in the unique products.
“Everything was created and made by somebody local from around the Omaha area. It just makes things a little more thoughtful when you give gifts,” said Ourada.
That’s something to which Christopher and Kristin Rock can relate. As a military family, they like to give gifts that reflect the local talent of wherever they’re living next.
“Really get to know Omaha and the vendors here, and we have his family in town, so really get to show them everything Omaha has to offer,” said Kristin.
Whether it’s soaps, candy, or something called Beard Balm, Rose Schneider, owner of Adagio, a soap and bath products shop, said it best.
“When you buy from a small business there’s somebody who put their heart and soul into what they’re making.”
If you want to check out the makers at Bancroft Street Market, the event is also going on tomorrow from 10-4. You can get more information from Handmade Omaha’s Facebook page.
