Small Business Saturday

I know.   Officially, Small Business Sunday was yesterday.  But something happened today that, to me, outlines a difference between local merchants and perhaps some larger chains.

We are under a winter storm warning today, where I live in the Southern Tier of upstate New York.  It's been spitting sleet, and we've had a little snow, and things are really slick out there.

Which is why one local business (OK, I'll name them - Tioga Gardens) first decided to postpone an open house they were supposed to be holding today, in the name of safety.  And later, they made the decision to close early.

Isn't this ceramic dog at Tioga Gardens' Entrance cute?

This is a business that has flooded several times over the years, but they have always come back.

So I want to tell you about my experience with them recently.

Back in early November, I bought a fancy African Violet from them, after a lot of thought.  A woman working there stood with me, answering my questions, and waited patiently as I made up my mind.  I had fallen in love with a couple of them and just couldn't decide.

After I made up my mind, I discussed self watering pots with her.  She discussed my needs and decided I should not buy one for my desired plant yet.  Wait, what? Trying to discourage a sale?

Anyway, spouse and I went back yesterday and the woman was there, tending some plants.  I told her I was ready for the pot.  She recommended the size, showed me how to use it, and even suggested a color based on the appearance of my pot.  So, she made the sale.

Would I have used her and then bought it online?  No way.

Now I know I made the right choice.  I applaud Tioga Gardens and another local business, Black Bear Winery (also out in the countryside) that decided not to open today at all.

This is income out of their pockets.  This is not to say a large big box store would never close due to inclement weather, but they can better afford the loss.

Yes, I admit it.  On Black Friday I did buy from several large chains, because I knew what I wanted, and they had specials that saved me a lot of money.  And, I do recognize that they provide employment in our community, too. But I also gladly participate in Small Business Saturday.


I think this dog would agree.