Main Street shops prepare for holiday shopping season

LAFAYETTE, Ind. (WLFI) - Major retailers are preparing for Black Friday and locally owned shops on Lafayette's Main Street are no different.

Traci Bratton owns Walnut Street Traditions . She said her store has been decked out for the holidays since early November. The holiday shopping season (November, December and January) makes up for 40 percent of her annual sales.

"These are small business owners, people in your community that have put their heart and soul into their small business. They would really appreciate your patronage this holiday season," said Erin Nelson with Greater Lafayette Commerce.

Nelson said it's not only patronage to these locally owned stores, it's patronage to the community.

"68% of every dollar you spend locally stays in the community," explained Nelson.

That's compared to 43% that stays in the local community when you shop at a chain store, added Nelson.

"When you shop local, you keep it local," said Bratton.

Tracy said when you walk in her store, you're in for a unique experience. She sells home decor items and has something for every budget, from $2 to $2,000. Bratton said you'll avoid the large crowds and the pushing and shoving. She also added that finding parking is usually pretty easy.

"The items here are unique and special and I know when I get a gift for someone or myself, no one else is going to have it," said customer Lisa Logsdon.

Logsdon said she drives from Noblesville to visit Walnut Street traditions.

Saturday, November 26 is the second annual "Small Business Saturday." It's a movement that began a year ago which encourages people all around the country to spend the day shopping at independent, locally owned stores. It's being pushed by American Express and the movement even has a Facebook page with more than two million "likes."