On November 22nd, people across the nation will have the opportunity to support their local economies. Pink Friday is an annual event that encourages people to shop small first, and the city of Valparaiso has announced that it is participating in Pink Friday this year. Shopping small means looking at small businesses for holiday shopping before moving on to the big box companies.

Pink Friday gives small businesses a time to shine and grow. It also brings a greater sense of community to the holiday season. Besides, this is the season of giving, and prioritizing growing businesses is the best way to help the community while still getting holiday shopping out of the way.

The Pink Friday tradition started in 2020, taking place the day before Black Friday to emphasize the importance of supporting small businesses first. The Boutique Hub started this tradition four years ago to encourage supporting independent retailers. The Boutique Hub is a community of independent boutique owners. In 2013, Ashley Alderson and her passionate team created this community to provide boutique owners with tools, education, and a community they could depend on. This organization has had a lasting impact on the retail industry. Pink Friday is just one example of things they have done for this industry. 

Supporting small businesses in your community is the best way to get into the holiday spirit. Not only will there still be great deals, but participating will help local businesses and the community as a whole grow. This tradition brings people together and uplifts them as a community.