GEORGETOWN, Del. - The U.S. Small Business Administration, La Plaza Delaware, and the Delaware Alliance of Latino Entrepreneurs, or ¡Dale!, visited local businesses in Georgetown on Tuesday to share the importance of shopping small during the holiday season as we approach Small Business Saturday.
Iván Vázquez, who founded Impressions LLC two years ago with his wife, Patricia Carranza, expressed gratitude for the community's support.
"We could not be here if it were not for the support of our people who buy our products. We are a small business, and we rely only on the sales of these products that we manufacture here," Vázquez said.
U.S. Small Business Administration Delaware director Michelle Harris emphasized the critical role of small businesses in local economies.
"It's really important that we support these small businesses that we go out and we buy with them because not only do they start a business to make a profit, of course, but they're also starting a business to be a part of their community," Harris said.
Mary Dupont, executive director of La Plaza Delaware, highlighted the importance of shopping locally.
"I like to support the community, and of course, I'm committed to it, but I think it's important to really think about it rather than just going up to Amazon or going to Walmart, you know, some of the big chains; it's you supporting a whole family and a whole community when you support Latino business," Dupont said.
Businesses such as Jalapeño Restaurant, Super Tienda Xela, and Luli's Creations participated in the tour, showcasing their readiness for holiday shoppers.
"I will bring new things to my community. I will have flower arrangements for Christmas. I will also have balloons," María "Lulis" Vázquez, owner of Luli's Creations, said.
Iván Vázquez shared a message for customers.
"Shop small, like this is the time of the year. Shop small, keep the money, the money in our communities," he said.
Small Business Saturday, which is coming up this Saturday, aims to highlight the positive impact customers can have on their communities by supporting local businesses.
