When you’re on the hunt for a deal or you’re shopping on a budget there is a good chance you’re going to end up at a large corporation – chain store. I know in this economy a deal is a deal and its nearly impossible to pass up. There is another consideration to be looked at however, and that is “where is your money ending up?”

Small businesses are the backbone of our local economies. They use their earnings to pay taxes and to make donations to local charities along with a myriad of other sources that provide stability and growth in our community. As each community grows, it fosters growth in the surrounding areas and pretty soon, we are all better off for it. Below is a personal experience that may benefit those who routinely avoid small business out of habit.

One afternoon Ashley and I were in the market for a stand up easel for a Wedding Photography display we were putting together for Bridal Expo. On our way to Michael’s Ashley said “hey, lets check out that frame shop we’ve been meaning to visit”. So we entered this little shop in Chelmsford Ma called The Art Room.
http://www.artroomchelmsford.com/

As we walked in we were greeted by a very friendly pooch, who was probably not the owner but could have certainly been the boss, if you know what I mean. The owner was on the phone when we came in, but immediately finished his call and we introduced ourselves. We ended up talking with James, the owner, about framing, matting, photography, art, music the Merrimack Valley and everything in between. James asked detailed questions regarding our business, our history and then we finally got on the subject of our current project.

Although, he didn’t sell the easels we were looking for he took out a sketch pad and put out an idea that would work much better than an easel. It was amazing, but unfortunately we didn’t have the time for another hardware store run, so ironically he told us to “just go to Michaels!” This is a prime example of a small business owner taking the time to speak with us one on one, give us advice and point us in the right direction, even if it wasn’t financially beneficial for him.

However, we undoubtedly are going to use The ART ROOM for all of our framing needs. Previously we were using an online company because of the affordability. After thinking long and hard we decided to put our money into small businesses because that is the easiest way to invest in our local economy.

This is highly applicable to the wedding industry as well. Why go through the mega-super corporations who only view your customer number and your balance due? Find a local florist, caterer, dress designer, tuxedo shop, photographer, printer and countless others who know your name, your fiance’s name and have a vested interest in producing a product that you will love.

Here is a short article which portrays the benefits of a small business relationship.
http://www.morebusiness.com/small-business-advantages

Thanks for reading, comments are welcome and encouraged.
-Rich