American Express recognizes local shop in downtown Lafayette for 'Small Business Saturday'

LAFAYETTE, Ind. (WLFI) - Most people have heard of Black Friday but another important day for retail stores is known as "Small Business Saturday."

A local Lafayette business is receiving national recognition for its work last holiday season.

Walnut Street Traditions one of 25 small businesses in the country to be featured in the American Express "Small Business Saturday" campaign. The store is located on the corner of 10th and Main streets. The business opened more than 30 years ago. Traci Bratton is the current owner.

"I have worked for 10 years to grow this business and I am just so happy that it's working," said Bratton.

"Small Business Saturday" follows "Black Friday." In 2011, Bratton said she had her single best sales day in six years. With earning this recognition, Bratton said she is honored to be able to draw attention to small businesses in Lafayette.

"I love our community. Lafayette's a great town. I love the downtown and I'm just glad I can shed a little light and notoriety to downtown," she explained.

When asked what her secret to success is, Bratton simply replied, "Failure is not an option."

She went on to say she never quits and she continues to stay determined to make her business thrive. She said networking like social media and store newsletters has also helped get the word out.

Erin Nelson with Greater Lafayette Chamber of Commerce said small businesses, like Walnut Street Traditions, help promote a diverse community.

"They're the places we go when we want to shop, eat, when we're looking for an unique product you can't find in a big box store. Downtown is the first place most people think of when they're looking for an item like that," explained Nelson.

Nelson also said small businesses are vital in helping the economy.

"They are hugely important. They're an economic driver and they are a sign of the vitality of our community."

Greater Lafayette Chamber of Commerce and small businesses in Lafayette host various events to promote shopping and dining at locally owned businesses. Bratton said she is expecting another successful "Small Business Saturday" on Nov. 24.

If you're interested in checking out some of the small businesses in the area, the Downtown Holiday Open House is Friday and Saturday, Nov. 10-11. Hours vary per business.

Check out the American Express' feature of Walnut Street Traditions via its "Small Business Saturday" success stories website . The shop is listed as success story number seven. You can also keep up with Walnut Street Traditions via its website with an online store and the shop's Facebook page.

Learn more about Greater Lafayette Commerce via the organization's website.