Yep! I’m that girl who would be clicking her heels in delight after learning about a new small business or browsing the seasonal collection and new arrivals at small retailers. Many of my picks for this year’s Holiday Gift Guide are new-to-me businesses that are now on my list of favorites. I know supporting them makes a real difference; and this holiday, I would love for you to join me in discovering small retailers in your area and shopping small first.
One way to #SupportSmallFirst is by shopping on Pink Friday before Black Friday.
If you haven’t heard about Pink Friday until now, you’re not alone, but I’ve got you covered. Let’s dive into the details of this event (scroll to the end for info on how to participate).
supporting small businesses
What Is Pink Friday?
Pink Friday, held annually on the Friday before Black Friday (November 21st this year) is a nationwide shopping event organized by The Boutique Hub to foster connection, inspire customers to invest in their local communities, and encourage shopping small first.
Founded by Ashley Alderson in 2013, The Boutique Hub is the largest community dedicated to empowering independent retailers. Ashley created a database of storefronts and online shops, connecting consumers with unique boutiques nationwide.
In 2020, the Pink Friday event was launched with a focus on community connection and creating memorable shopping experiences before the holiday rush. It’s also about shifting our attention away from deep discounts and placing more emphasis on hearing the stories behind each product, and celebrating the people and places that make a community unique.
supporting small businesses
How Pink Friday Gives Back
The Boutique Hub has partnered with Heart on Main Street to donate $1 for every participating business. This year’s funds will directly support Texas Hill Country retailers impacted by devastating floods.
In 2024, Pink Friday united over 5,000 small businesses across all 50 states—and this year, that number is expected to double.
supporting small businesses
How To Participate In Pink Friday
Get ready to #SupportSmallFirst on November 21st! The official Pink Friday website lists all the ways you can shop, including an interactive map of participating stores (both storefronts and online stores) to help you find the best gifts for everyone on your list. You can also follow the #SupportSmallFirst hashtag on social media.
A note for retailers: any small business can participate in Pink Friday! Find out more by visiting http://go.theboutiquehub.com/pinkfriday. As I mentioned earlier, for every retailer who signs up, The Boutique Hub will donate $1 to Heart on Main Street, benefiting small businesses affected by the Texas Hill Country floods.
