November is finally here, and along with cooler temperatures and changing leaves, the holiday shopping season is in full swing. Most, if not all shoppers, are already familiar with major shopping holidays like “Black Friday” and “Cyber Monday”, but what about “Small Business Saturday”?
Celebrating its ninth year on November 24th, 2018, Small Business Saturday is another jubilant shopping day organized by American Express in recognition of the positive effects that small businesses have on their communities. It is a day meant to encourage holiday shoppers to patronize local brick and mortar, mom and pop shops rather than big-box retail and e-commerce.
Here is a handful of some of the Atlanta Small Business Network’s favorite local eateries, clothing stores, and other retailers in the metro Atlanta area that you should consider checking out on Small Business Saturday.
Food
First on our list is Inman Park favorite, King of Pops. This gourmet popsicle retailer has taken Atlanta by storm. With 40 pushcarts and two customized ice cream trucks, King of Pops can be found at most Atlanta sporting events, concerts, and festivals. In addition to their window shop in Inman Park, King of Pops caters and can be found in smaller retailers across the city as well as Whole Foods Market. With flavors like Thai iced tea, blueberry cobbler, and banana puddin’, there is something for the whole family.
One part sandwich deli, one part pub, right down the street in Inman Park, or at its second location in Decatur, is Victory Sandwich. These artisan-style sandwiches and small bites are great for shoppers who need to break for lunch. With menu items like the Pokemon which has pulled pork, Korean BBQ, and Asian slaw to whiskey and coke slushies, this trendy eatery is a must visit.
Traveling northwest outside of the perimeter is the upscale RO Hospitality in Roswell. RO is the driving force behind the southern tavern Table & Main, as well as Coalition Food and Beverage. With strong ties to the community, RO Hospitality strives to create beautiful food stories and service that locals will visit time and time again.
Drink
If you’re anything like us here at ASBN, then you need lots of coffee to get your day going. Consider checking out Rev Coffee outside the perimeter in Smyrna. Formally a car garage, Rev has been converted into an offbeat coffeehouse with tremendous personality. Never a business to settle for just decent, Rev prides itself on having the best brew around. Stop in for a chai latte or pick up some of their beans from Heritage Sandy Springs Farmers Market every Saturday.
Are you a wine or craft beer aficionado? If so, then you have to check out Pinkies Up Beer & Wine. Located in Roswell, Pinkie’s Up is a lounge and retail space for craft beer and boutique wine that also offers educational courses, and custom shopping software, whether you want to enjoy by the glass or take home a six-pack. Without the pressures or intensity of a bar, Pinkies Up offer a relaxed atmosphere and seeks to make the buying process of beer and wine as simple and enjoyable as possible. Don’t forget to check out their event in honor of Small Business Saturday.
Retail
Heading back down into East Atlanta Village, there is a trendy lifestyle company aimed at bringing awareness to your own self-worth. So Worth Loving is a cause-based clothing and apparel store that has been in business for over six years serving Atlanta locals from all walks of life. Now selling in all 50 states and over 30 countries, So Worth Loving continues its mission of giving more support to the mental health community and providing a safe space for customers to tell their story.
Taking a walk through Historic Roswell, you will no doubt stumble across Mojo Vinyl Records. This humble yet impressive record store has everything you need for the natural sound that can only vinyl can provide. Music lovers old and young will be astounded at the wide selection of records and turntables, and knowledgeable staff that Mojo has to offer.
Everyone who has ever driven in and out of Atlanta knows that the traffic here is no joke. If you have jumped on the biking craze that is sweeping the city, then The Spindle is an absolute must-visit. This quirky store located in the heart of downtown Atlanta offers a host of men’s & women’s bicycle clothing, and accessories. With over 80 percent of their inventory being American made, the Spindle prides itself on only providing the finest and most durable products that will make your commute a breeze.
Entertainment
Perhaps you’re more into activities than shopping. If this is the case, consider spending Small Business Saturday at The Painted Pin. The Painted Pin is an upscale bowling and entertainment venue. Complete with a boutique bar experience, you can enjoy 20 full-service lanes in an industrial warehouse space in the heart of Buckhead’s Miami Circle. Indulge in a fun childhood activity with a unique adult twist.
For consumers looking for something off the beaten path, stay a night or two at The Social Goat Bed and Breakfast. This quaint farm and inn provides a little piece of the country right in the heart of the city. With tours, activities, and other attractions within walking distance, consider splurging for a little get-a-way at this one of kind place.
