PARSONS – Tucker County has lots to offer shoppers, whether they are in the market for Christmas gifts, items for home décor or food for the holidays. This Saturday is Small Business Saturday or Shop Local Saturday, hoping to encourage folks to shop close to home.
In Parsons, Debbie Stevens, owner of Gifts to Go, encourages everyone to shop locally. Her shop, located at 201 First St. will be offering many specials as well as samples and demonstrations on Shop Local Saturday.
“Folks visiting with us Saturday will get to try local soaps first hand,” Stevens said. “Our local soap maker will be at the shop to allow shoppers to ask questions and try the soap. This will allow customers to experience the scent and feel of these products before purchasing them.”
Stevens said shoppers can sample many West Virginia food products offered at Gifts to Go on Saturday.
“We have loads of local products that are hand-made as well as West Virginia items,” Stevens said. “We have many primitives and Camille Beckman items. We are open from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.”
Stevens said it is important to support local businesses every day and especially during the holiday season.
“It is always best to support your local community and those close to home,” Stevens said. “Supporting local businesses helps make our community, town, county, state and country more self-sustaining. It helps our town be a better place for local residents as well as assuring it is a tourist destination.”
Small Business Saturday began in 2010 with the hopes of encouraging shoppers to support locally owned businesses during the holiday season. Increases in internet shopping and big box stores prompted the creation of Small Business Saturdays to promote small businesses.
The West Virginia ON TRAC and Main Street Program works with local communities throughout the state focusing on economic revitalization of historic central business districts. This revitalization of local downtown and neighborhood commercial districts capitalizes on both the history and unique assists of each community. The program aims for thriving economies and bustling downtown businesses, the streets filled with residents as well as tourists.
In Thomas, many stores and businesses will offer a friendly welcome to those who shop local this Saturday. Mountain Mist Florist owner Penny Ellison said she will be extending storewide discounts to those who mention Shop Small Saturday.
“We will be serving light refreshments and welcoming folks to the shop with discounts and great products for gifts or for their own homes,” Ellison said. “We are a full service florist and gift shop.”
Ellison said Mountain Mist Florist, located on Front Street in Thomas, specializes in fresh floral arrangements, seasonal items and locally made crafts including stained glass, art work and hand crafted items. Mountain Mist Florist will be open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. this Saturday for shopping convenience.
Just down the street, Christmas Shoppe and More, is offering 10 percent on Shop Small Saturday. Owner Debbie Cooper said her shop will be open Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
“We have a large selection of Christmas ornaments and crafts, primitives, locally made arts and crafts and unique gifts,” Cooper said. “We invite everyone to stop by and remind them to support their friends and neighbors by shopping local.”
