This year marks the 10th anniversary of Small Business Saturday. The annual tradition, celebrated on the Saturday after Thanksgiving, provides a heartwarming start to the holiday season. Just one simple act will show friends, family and Loudoun businesses that you care: shop local and Take Loudoun Home for the Holidays.
Whether it’s a freshly-cut tree or wreathe, artisan gift or locally-sourced food, supporting Loudoun’s farms and Main Street businesses keeps your shopping dollars in the local economy, reduces environmental impact, and provides the special people in your life with a unique holiday experience.
Loudoun Economic Development is partnering with Visit Loudoun and the Loudoun Chamber of Commerce to support small businesses across all industries with a refreshed version of the Take Loudoun Home for the Holidays guide.
Originally launched in 2019 to support farms and rural businesses, the 2020 holiday campaign has expanded to be inclusive of any small business in need of support during a year of unprecedented economic uncertainty.
Review the Take Loudoun Home for the Holidays guide for unique local gifts, meals, services and experiences at TakeLoudounHome.com.
“Just like each of us, Loudoun County businesses have been through a rollercoaster year in 2020, and we all deserve to finish with a holiday season to remember,” Loudoun Economic Development Executive Director Buddy Rizer said. “Shopping local is about more than just convenience; this is supporting a neighbor, saving a job, and ensuring that the lights stay on for every #LoudounPossible business.”
In light of COVID-19, local businesses are embracing extra safety precautions, with many in this year’s guide taking the “Loudoun Is Ready” pledge to your well-being. This pledge, signed by more than 700 organizations, commits businesses to follow the latest guidance from the CDC and Virginia Department of Health.
In addition to the in-store experience, shoppers can support businesses through gift cards, curbside and delivery options, outdoor dining, virtual events, the Loudoun Made Loudoun Grown Marketplace, and more.
“While the holidays may feel different this year, there are still so many ways to enjoy the season safely in Loudoun,” Visit Loudoun’s CEO Beth Erickson said. “We’ve made it easier than ever to buy Loudoun-made products, pick up dinner from your favorite restaurant, enjoy a craft beverage or give gift certificates to hotels, shops and spas.”
Shopping from local farms helps to preserve Loudoun’s robust rural tradition and decrease the environmental impacts of shipping. Becoming a regular retail and restaurant patron can help businesses budget for job creation, new lines of business and expansions. Booking overnight accommodations at Loudoun’s unique bed-and-breakfasts and hotels is a great way for everyone to look forward to 2021.
“Unprecedented times have created unparalleled creativity among businesses and their customers this year, and we couldn’t be more proud. But we aren’t out of the woods yet,” Loudoun Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Tony Howard said. “This holiday season, please think about the businesses that make your life special: the restaurant on the corner, the farm you drive past every day, or your favorite store across town. To ensure their survival and success in 2021, please make plans to take Loudoun Home for the Holidays.”
