‘Tis the Season to Shop Local

In 2010, American Express started the first Small Business SaturdayÔ in the U.S. as a way to focus on small businesses during the holiday shopping season. The idea? Give small, local brick-and-mortar businesses an opportunity to attract customers on the shopping bonanza of a weekend after Thanksgiving. This year’s event is on Saturday, November 28, but be sure to support your favorite local business beyond this date. Check out these businesses below and find more neighborhood retailers to support at discoverslu.com.

4Twenty4, 2252 Seventh Avenue

This online clothing brand started by sisters Kenneisha and Sharita Brown are popping up at Periodic: A Pop-Up Shop through the end of the year. Find fashion-forward and affordable clothing for women of all sizes.

Hot Stove Society, online only

Chef Tom Douglas has been a staple in SLU for years, but the pandemic forced countless restaurants (including neighborhood favorites like Cuoco and Serious Pie) to close. He and his team are still a big part of the culinary community. Check out one of their virtual cooking classes.

Feathered Friends, 263 Yale Avenue North

SLU mainstay Feathered Friends is known for its simple but extremely high-quality blankets, sleeping bags, and clothing made of ethically sourced down and innovative materials.

Glassybaby, 2254 Seventh Avenue

Find beautiful glass-blown gifts at this Seattle institution. Long known for its simple but elegant votives, glassybaby offers a variety of colors and styles. Perhaps the best part of shopping for a glassybaby? Each purchase gives back to provide healing for people, animals, and planet. The glassybaby foundation has provided $10.7 million to causes consistent with its mission.

Glazer’s Camera, 430 Eighth Avenue North

This third generation, locally owned business has been helping new and seasoned photographers with the right gear since 1935. Find everything from the latest GoPro to used DSLRs and more. Plus, Glazer’s offers free virtual classes and workshops to help you with your gear.

The COVID-19 pandemic has made in-person shopping a challenge for small businesses and customers. Safety precautions limit contact with employees and stores have had to reduce hours and staff. Be sure to check your favorite shop’s website or call ahead to help plan your shopping experience.