Love is in the air!

According to the Small Business Administration, February is the perfect time to "Be Sweet on Small Business" not just on Valentine's Day but every day in February and beyond.It means spending money close to home for your cards, candy, flowers and dining experiences and then coming back for other purchases throughout the year.Small businesses offer personalized customer service and unique gift options that can't be found in a large department store or impersonal online site.Don't forget your local grocer, hardware store or appliance store.They all work hard to keep their prices competitive.One of the positives of shopping small and local is you are supporting your neighbors whose livelihood depends on your support.But it is much more than that.It's knowing the smiling face behind the counter is the same one that you see at your child's school events, or at your place of worship or on the street.This is the same business owner that is constantly asked to support your fundraisers. And they do it gladly because they know it is important to support their communities.But for how important it is to them to support their community, it is even more important for you to continue to support them by shopping there more than once or twice a year.Because you are not only supporting someone's livelihood, you are supporting a neighbor, a friend or family member's job that is also dependant on the success of the small business.Small businesses provide income for the high school student who is working part time to save for college or a car.It also provides them valuable life experiences in learning to be responsible and to show up on time for work or how to work as a team.If you are a small-business owner, the "Be Sweet on Small Business" theme is a great marketing opportunity to showcase just how special you are.Promote special pricing, new products and gift ideas.What makes your business special? Is it the personal touch you offer or the frequent shopper deals or discounts for your loyal customers. Or is it the one of-a-kind items that can't be found anywhere else. The fresh cut meats, fresh baked organic breads or the locally grown produce that in turn supports other local small businesses.This is the Power of Partnerships and no one knows how important that power is more than your local Chamber of Commerce.If you are looking for a specific local business, or if you are a business looking for help with financing, marketing, networking, training, and consulting services, look no further than CCEDC.Contact us.We are here to help make every day a "Be Sweet on Small Business" day.