Atlanta Mayor Promotes Local Shopping Ahead of Small Business Saturday
As Small Business Saturday approaches, the vibrant city of Atlanta is buzzing with excitement! In a delightful show of support for the little guys, Mayor Andre Dickens spent his Monday hopping around three of the city’s beloved Main Street business districts, encouraging anyone and everyone to shop local this holiday season.
Exploring Atlanta’s Hidden Gems
The mayor’s charming tour took him through some of the quirkiest and most unique neighborhoods, including Little Five Points, East Atlanta Village, and the Historic West End. These areas are key players in the Atlanta Office of Economic Development’s Atlanta Main Street “Shop Small” campaign, which is all about shining a spotlight on the importance of supporting our local business owners.
As Dickens strolled through Little Five Points, he stopped by popular spots like Turtle Island Trading and Sevananda. These shops are not just places to buy unique gifts but are also vital parts of the community fabric that brings neighbors together. The mayor shared his enthusiasm with locals, stating, “Atlanta is a city of connected neighborhoods and it is important for our Administration to lead by example by going into the community to show that you can buy great things while supporting our small businesses.”
Wrapping Up the Tour
His next stop was East Atlanta Village, where he focused on loved local spots like Healing U Wellness Boutique, Pub EAV, and The Victorian. These businesses not only offer great products but also create jobs for the community and add to the area’s unique vibe. Dickens emphasized that when you shop small, “great things happen,” highlighting the positive ripple effect local businesses have on our neighborhoods.
The mayor’s adventures didn’t end there—after his enlightening shopping spree, he capped off the day with a hearty meal at Boxcar, a popular restaurant sure to satisfy any foodie’s cravings.
Encouraging the Community to Shop Small
With the holiday shopping season officially upon us, Mayor Dickens and other officials are reminding residents just how important it is to focus on supporting local businesses. As Deputy Commissioner of City Planning Janide Sidifall explained, “Our Atlanta Main Street districts and their participating businesses reflect the distinct character of their surrounding neighborhood while creating strong economic and commercial centers.”
This perspective is what makes Atlanta so special—the neighborhoods are full of history, culture, and creative entrepreneurs looking to make their mark. By shopping small, citizens can give back to their community and make a positive impact.
Making Shopping Easier
Understanding that the hustle and bustle of the holiday season can get overwhelming, the Atlanta Department of Transportation has also stepped in to help. They’ve rolled out an updated list of projects that are either underway or set to start soon, making it easier for shoppers to navigate the busy streets during this peak shopping time.
So, whether you’re on the hunt for a one-of-a-kind gift or treating yourself to something special, remember the friendly faces behind the counters of your favorite local shops. This season, let’s make it a goal to fill our bags with products that have a story to tell—supporting small businesses makes a big difference in the community, and who doesn’t love a little local love?
So, ready to shop small and support your local businesses this holiday season? Jump into your favorite Atlanta neighborhood and see what exciting treasures await you. Happy shopping!
