Clovis Shoppers Flock to Small Businesses on Urgent Shopping Day

UPDATE: Residents in Clovis, California are transforming the holiday shopping experience as Small Business Saturday draws record crowds to local shops. Just hours ago, festive carriage rides filled with Christmas cheer made Old Town feel like a winter wonderland, enticing shoppers to explore unique finds.

Shoppers flooded the streets, eager to score those special deals. “Everyone’s antique shopping right here in Clovis, which is great. The weather is great, the venues are amazing,” exclaimed Heather Martinez, who showcased a one-of-a-kind purchase. “How beautiful is that, you can’t get that anywhere else,” she beamed, underscoring the importance of supporting local businesses.

Martinez, a long-time Clovis resident, emphasized her commitment to local shops, stating, “Of course I’m going to support small businesses, that’s how it’s supposed to be.” Her sentiments echo a growing trend as consumers recognize the value of shopping small.

Local business owner Tom Frost of Frost Oak Creek Creations anticipates a significant boost during this critical shopping season. “I would say the holiday season is about a third of your business for the year,” he stated. “Black Friday and all that just really starts picking up dramatically and stays pretty busy right through Christmas.”

Frost’s shop offers hard-to-find items, including Charlie Bears and unique holiday decor, drawing attention from holiday shoppers looking for special gifts. This surge isn’t limited to Clovis; businesses across the region are feeling the impact.

At Manchester Mall in central Fresno, local merchant Lani, owner of Shake & Sip Lemonade Stand, highlighted the difference shopping small can make. “You’re just another number at a big box store, but you might be paying for someone’s meal if you’re buying from a small business,” she shared, emphasizing the personal connection fostered by local commerce.

While Small Business Saturday is a designated day for supporting local enterprises, community leaders remind shoppers that their patronage is crucial year-round. As shoppers continue to flock to Clovis and Fresno’s bustling markets, the impact of their choices resonates deeply within the community, reinforcing the importance of supporting small businesses during this festive season.

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