SBS: How I’m participating and Supporting Small Business Saturday

Small Business Saturday is upon us once again. It’s here – it’s today. With it comes its fair share of critics. Essentially, it’s a shopping holiday that was created by American Express five years ago to promote spending at local and small shops. Last year, consumers who said they were aware of the campaign spent approximately $5.7 billion with independent merchants. Consumer awareness hit 71%, and 46% of those people reported making a purchase. Depending on the size of the “small” business, that purchase may involve buying a manufacturing item. The Nina Bralette is in fact manufactured.

Especially now, this holiday means more than ever. As an entrepreneur fully supporting myself aside from a few side gigs hear and there, Madalynne is not just a business; it’s also an extension of me. With every small accomplishment or positive customer email, my confidence and fulfillment is boosted. With every obstacle, my self-belief goes down for a day or two. I know I can’t accommodate every customer, but even so, maintaining a healthy perspective is tough. The saying, “It’s not personal, it’s business” doesn’t apply. It may be business, but it also incredibly personal.

Thats why as an entrepreneur, I’m not just hoping to to benefit from this holiday, but also trying to to make a bigger difference by supporting other small business today and throughout the holiday. Next weekend, I’ll be teaming up with Elle Lauri to host a pop up at their Rittenhouse store. A few days later, I’ll celebrate Hope Chest’s 5th anniversary. I’ll also be donating 5% of sales through December 31 to The Bra Recyclers. And don’t forget that every Madalynne Intimates item is made in Brooklyn. Woo!

Because the more you give, the more you get. That’s why I’m participating in SBS. Head on over to the shop now.