Kick-Off the Holiday Shopping Season on Small Business Saturday in Old Pasadena

These locally owned small businesses, found “Only in Old Pas,” line the quaint side streets and alleys of the historic Playhouse District. – Photo by Terry Miller / Beacon Media News

The perfect shopping trip to avoid the Black Friday madness.

By Sedonah Najera

Celebrate all of Old Pasadena’s small businesses with the Shop Small event on Small Business Saturday on Nov. 25, when merchants offer special promotions, discounts, treats, and the opportunity to get to know local neighborhood store owners and restaurateurs.

Old Pasadena is home to more than 150 one-of-a-kind businesses that offer distinctive merchandise, dining, and service. These locally owned small businesses, found “Only in Old Pas,” line the quaint side streets and alleys of the historic Playhouse District.

In 2010, local businesses were hurting from an economy in recession. In an effort to support these local shops that build communities, American Express launched Small Business Saturday the day after Black Friday in hopes of helping to bring more holiday sales to small businesses. Within one year of the launch, the Senate passed a resolution to full support of Small Business Saturday. By 2012, officials in all 50 states participated. To this day, it has transformed into an annual shopping tradition dedicated to supporting small businesses and celebrating communities across the country.

With the support of American Express and the passion from thousands of small business owners across the country, Small Business Saturday has begun to transform as the day to start the holiday season.

Visitors can visit one of the Old Pasadena “Welcome Stations” during their shopping trip to learn more about the day’s events and pick up free “Shop Small Saturday” tote bags and other goodies while supplies last.

– Courtesy photo / Small Business Saturday, American Express

Locations include:

• Vroman’s Bookstore 695 E. Colorado Blvd.
• CREPEstudio, 99 E. Union St. 91103
• Crowned Studio Salon, 86 N. Fair Oaks Avenue
• Old Pasadena Pharmacy & Marketplace, 155 S. De Lacey
• We Olive & Wine Bar, 32 E. Colorado Blvd.

Businesses like these, in California, play a key role in helping communities thrive. By shopping or dinning at local places throughout the year, it shows the support for small businesses and makes a positive impact within the community. Small businesses have created major impacts across all communities and help ensure local economies stay strong and vibrant.

To find out more about what businesses are participating in other communities, visit the Shop Small Map or visit local communities and Shop Small.

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