Small Business Saturday Helps Create Repeat Customers

DENVER (CBS4) - The cold weather didn't stop shoppers from taking advantage of Small Business Saturday. The annual event celebrated its sixth year nationwide, and an increasing number of small Colorado stores joined in.

Small Business Saturday is not just a one day business boost.

"It brings out so many new customers that hopefully will come back time after time throughout the year," small business owner Nicole Wolsey-Neech said.

Eighteen businesses along Tennyson from 38th to 46th avenues joined in last year. This year they had 25.

At La-Lou Art Studio the owner gave lessons for kids so the parents could shop.

"It's very nice as a parent myself to be able to go shopping without my children in tow," Julie Scarlata said.

A jewelry shop owner thinks Small Business Saturday drove 300 more customers into her store.

"Fifty percent more than what we typically do on a Saturday … in profits," small business owner Sarah Ortega said.

It's no coincidence that the event was timed for the weekend following Thanksgiving when out-of-towners are still visiting and spending time and money.