Small Business Saturday 2017: Your guide to shopping local in Philly

Small Business Saturday is the independent retailer’s answer to the big blowout Black Friday sales at oversized department stores. Looking for something unique for the loved ones on your holiday shopping list? Philadelphia’s thriving downtown shopping scene has something for everyone.

“Nothing compares to the excitement of busy city sidewalks dressed in bright lights and holiday cheer” says Michelle Shannon, Vice President of Marketing & Communications for Center City District and co-chair of The Philadelphia Retail Marketing Alliance. “ Small Business Saturday in Center City is a vibrant, one-of-a-kind shopping trip unlike anything else in the region.”

According to Shannon, local proprietors make up 78% of the tenant mix in Center City, which is pretty extraordinary.

Here are her top picks for must-shop, local destinations on Small Business Saturday:

ellelauri
114 S 19th St.
ellelauri.com

Want to look fabulous while sticking to a budget? Women’s lifestyle brand, ellelauri, has a collection of dresses, tops and more for the professional woman, all at affordable prices. On Small Business Saturday, get up to 40% off when you buy four items and even enjoy a coffee bar as you shop.

The Rittenhouse Spa & Club
210 W Rittenhouse Square
therittenhousespaclub.com

In need of a massage? Most of the people on your holiday shopping list could probably use one, too. If you purchase $200 or more in gift cards, you can get a 30-minute complimentary neck and shoulder massage through Dec. 31. As the saying goes, great givers are great getters.

Tselaine
1927 Walnut St.
facebook.com/tselainephilly

Who doesn’t love one-of-a-kind jewelry, handbags and accessories? You never know what you’ll find at Tselaine and on Small Business Saturday, you’ll even be treated with mystery discounts. Customers will choose one small box out of 24 to receive their special discount. What’s more, Small Business Saturday Shoppers will also get a tote with $20 worth of Tselaine merchandise. Sweet!

Benjamin Lovell Shoes
1728 Chestnut St.
blshoes.com

Men and women alike love this stylish shoe boutique that offers classic looks that are also good to your feet. On Small Business Saturday, you can get 10% off each pair of shoes purchased for every food-drive item you donate to the store. All canned goods will be donated to People’s Emergency Center’s Food Cupboard.

So where will you be shopping on Small Business Saturday in Philly? Tell us in the comments below.