If there’s one good thing that comes out of 2020, it’s that we were reminded of what’s really important – family, friends, colleagues, being together, our health … just to name a few. Thanksgiving is one my favorite holidays, and as challenging as this year has been, I know we all still have much to be grateful for.
At the Chamber, we are truly thankful for our members. You have risen to the challenges of this pandemic and economy – coming up with new ways to deliver your goods and services, restructuring your businesses, supporting each other and keeping your teams safe. We continue to ensure our smallest businesses feel our love so rather than dedicating one Saturday to small businesses this year, we’re asking you to keep them front of mind for this entire season.
Here are some ideas from the U.S. Small Business Administration and our own Denver Metro Small Business Development Center for how you can shop small this season, stay safe and have a big impact:
- Start shopping early – This year, many businesses are facing limited inventories and shipping delays. Shop early to make sure your gift arrives on time.
- Order online – Check business websites as many have implemented new online buying options.
- Pick up curbside – Call your local store or restaurant to pick up purchases at the curb, avoiding the need to go into the store.
- Buy gift cards – Leave it to your loved ones to pick out what they want most from a local boutique, restaurant or coffee shop. You’ll bring joy to both them and that small business.
- Order takeout – When Colorado Gov. Jared Polis closed indoor dining in many Colorado counties last week, he also called on Coloradans to order takeout. Our restaurants still really need our business, so take a break from cooking and pick up a meal from your favorite neighborhood restaurant.
- Be patient and kind – If you’re shopping in person, you may run into lines when shops have met their guest limit. Allow for some extra time and be patient with workers. The holidays can be stressful any year and then you add a pandemic … instead of getting frustrated with the challenging situation we are all facing, thank those workers for being there and serving you.
- Tag small businesses on social media – We know how powerful networks and connections are at the Chamber. While you’re waiting curbside to enter a shop or pick up a to-go order, take a minute to tag that business on social media.
- Check out the Denver Metro SBDC holiday guide – Our SBDC team is inviting small businesses to sign up and be featured in our holiday guide. Next week, visit denversbdc.org to get ideas for gifts from our many local small businesses.
While we’re talking about what we’re thankful for, I want to call out our agriculture industry. Our farmers and ranchers have also been hit hard this year, and we’re disappointed that we can’t express our appreciation in person at the National Western Stock Show in January. But that won’t stop us from celebrating our Western culture and heritage and the importance of this industry. Boots ‘n Business will be at home on the range in 2021. You’ll pick up the grub and we’ll cook it together, virtually, while recognizing how much Colorado’s agriculture industry continues to contribute to our state. Giddy up and register today.
Kelly Brough is the president and CEO of the Denver Metro Chamber.