3 Reasons to Shop Small on #PlaidFriday
by Raissa Palacios
Founded right here in Oakland, CA, Plaid Friday is a growing national shopping alternative to Black Friday - simply put, PLAID Friday calls for supporting small, locally-owned businesses during the holiday season.
From November 24-26th, 2017, entrepreneurs around the country will participate by hosting events and offering specials discounts in-store. Plaid (fabric) was chosen for this campaign because it represents the diverse weaving of small businesses - why not spend time in the laid-back company of local creatives instead of fighting crowds under fluorescent lights in Target at midnight? Here are three of the most important reasons to shop #plaidfriday:
1. Find a unique gift. There is something special about rejecting generic gifts in favor of special gifts whose origins are easily traced back to a single maker (or a community of makers). Whether it’s a hand-crafted kitchen utensil or 3D printed jewelry, the character of the item alone is priceless. Anyone worth the purchase of a gift will appreciate that you took the time to support a real life artist in your own community. Plus, hunting for the perfect gift among local businesses can be very exciting!On average, close to 50% percent of all purchases from independent businesses are recirculated locally. As consumers, we have the collective power to keep our communities from being taken over by soulless chain stores that do not have our best interests at heart. Remember to #shoplocal this holiday season by participating in Plaid Friday! Visit Oakland Grown for a comprehensive guide to shopping small in Oakland, California.
Uptown, Downtown, and Old Oakland are all easily accessible by car, public transportation, or walking. A simple cruise down Broadway or Telegraph Ave will bring you straight to the heart of our shopping district.
Come shop with us this Plaid Friday and put your money where you heart is by investing your money locally! Visit us at Viscera, 1542 Broadway in Downtow Oakland or at V by Viscera 902 Washington St. in Old Oakland