Richmond celebrates Small Business Saturday with holiday shopping, deals
VENN
RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- Richmond shoppers showed their support for local businesses on Small Business Saturday, taking advantage of post-Black Friday deals this Thanksgiving weekend and getting a head start on their holiday shopping.
On Saturday, Nov. 29, businesses and shoppers gathered for festive entertainment, holiday shopping and exclusive deals from retailers from the Richmond metro area at the Holiday Artisan Market.
Small Business Saturday, founded in 2010, is supported by the U.S. Small Business Administration to support the nation’s more than 36 million independent businesses.
Frances Odoi, a vendor at the Maker's Market selling cold-pressed juices, said the event gives vendors a chance to showcase gifts.
Many of the businesses that attended the event are part of RVA Black Farmers Market -- a farmers market that has been serving the Richmond community since 2020.
(Photo: Ethan Thompson, 8News)
(Photo: Ethan Thompson, 8News)
(Photo: Ethan Thompson, 8News)
(Photo: Ethan Thompson, 8News)
(Photo: Ethan Thompson, 8News)
(Photo: Ethan Thompson, 8News)
(Photo: Ethan Thompson, 8News)
(Photo: Ethan Thompson, 8News)
(Photo: Ethan Thompson, 8News)
(Photo: Ethan Thompson, 8News)
"When it comes down to just the community, the RVA Black Farmers Market is a community within itself. And that's the makers, as well as the individuals [who] come out." Odoi said.
Odoi added that the event, held at Stony Point, also gives vendors visibility and enhances the businesses' connection to the local community.
"[Customers] coming out, knowing that we're here at the RVA Black Farmers Market, but also addressing the community at Stony Point is what we're here to do," Odoi said.
With discounted ice skating tickets, live music and exclusive giveaways, the event offered support for small businesses and some festive cheer around the holiday season.
"Being able to assist individuals who are coming to the market and coming to the mall -- to be able to come and shop with small businesses as well,"'" Odoi said. "It allows them to broaden their gift options for the holidays."
