Support ‘Small Business Saturday’

Shop local on Nov. 26

EBS STAFF

The Big Sky Chamber of Commerce is encouraging the Big Sky community to shop small on Saturday, Nov. 26, as a part of the nationwide American Express event, “Small Business Saturday.” The purpose of the event is to encourage locals to get out and support local businesses.

Area shoppers are invited to meet at the chamber between 9 and 10 a.m. for coffee and mimosas to kick off the celebration, and to enter for a chance to win one of four $50 gift certificates to spend during Small Business Saturday at any of the participating local businesses. Attendees will also receive a free tote bag and other complimentary swag courtesy of American Express.

Community members show their support of “Shop Small Saturday” to be held in Big Sky on Saturday, Nov. 26. PHOTO COURTESY OF BIG SKY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

The national Small Business Saturday movement started in 2010. This is the third year that the chamber of commerce is sponsoring the event in Big Sky, and the first year the organization has been recognized as a “Neighborhood Champion” by American Express, for their commitment to organizing activities to rally their community for the event.

Approximately 30 Big Sky businesses participate each year, including retail and dining establishments in the canyon, Meadow and Mountain villages.

Amy Langmaid, owner of Rhinestone Cowgirl, a women’s boutique in Town Center, has been participating in the event since she opened her doors three years ago, and has found it to be way to encourage business and fun.

“It’s been really successful,” Langmaid said. “I especially like it because it’s mostly people I know from the community who come, and it’s fun to see people from Big Sky out and about shopping.”

Langmaid offers her special discount for the day in a playful fashion. Upon checkout, customers pop a balloon containing discounts of 15 to 40 percent off their entire purchase.

Amy Langmaid, owner of Rhinestone Cowgirl boutique has been participating in “Small Business Saturday” since she opened her business three years ago. PHOTO BY SARAH GIANELLI

“It’s a lot of fun and I really feel like it gets people to do what it’s supposed to do—get people to shop local,” she said.

Big Sky Chamber of Commerce Membership Director Margo Magnant said Small Business Saturday is one of the chamber’s favorite events of the year.

“We look forward to celebrating with all of the local businesses that help make our community so special all year,” she said.

Keep an eye out for a “Shop Small Specials” guide with a listing of participating Big Sky businesses and special discounts.

For more information or to become a participating business email info@bigskychamber.com or call (406) 995-3000.