While many shoppers have already hit the racks for Black Friday, Asbury Park’s businesses are getting ready for Small Business Saturday tomorrow.
Small Business Saturday was popularized by American Express as an alternative to shopping in the big-box chain stores to which most people flock on Black Friday. American Express offers its cardholders a $25 credit for shopping at a small business if they register ahead of time.
“This is a kickoff for our holiday season and we are so encouraged to have a national program people can participate in that really encourages them to come out and meet our business owners,” said Chamber of Commerce executive director Jackie Pappas this week.
Most Asbury Park businesses will be open on Saturday and many will offer Black Friday or Small Business Saturday deals this weekend. Some businesses offering deals this weekend include:
• BANDS ON A BUDGET will offer Black Friday discounts on some of their merchandise until the end of the month. Bands on a Budget sells customized apparel, business cards, banners and more. They’re offering discounted black pullover hoodies; two-for-one deals on IndieCards; and 20 percent o•f all vinyl banners with full-color printing, hems and grommets included.
• ROBERT LEGERE DESIGNS offers 40 percent discounts on rugs and a variety of furniture due to Hurricane Sandy, according to chief executive officer Steve Troy. The home goods company negotiated lower prices with vendors as a result of the hurricane, allowing the heavy discounts. This is in effect until the end of the year. They’re also selling holiday ornaments and decor at 25 percent off on Friday, Saturday and Sunday.
• GALLERY 13 in the Convention Hall Arcade will hold its annual Affordable Art show on Small Business Saturday and on Dec. 15. The sale features work by local artists.
• CONVENTION HALL’S HOLIDAY BAZAAR will be open on Saturday in time for the Tree Lighting there at 5 p.m. Most Asbury Park Boardwalk shops will be represented, including locations from pavilions along the boardwalk. A frequently updated holiday gift guide is available at APHolidayWishBook.com, featuring selections from boardwalk shops. The Holiday Bazaar will be open Fridays from 4 to 10 p.m.; Saturdays from noon to 10 p.m.; and Sundays from 12 to 6 p.m. through Dec. 23.
• SWEET JOEY’S vintage store on Bangs Avenue [pictured above] will be open all weekend and offering free jokes to their shoppers in honor of Small Business Saturday, as well as a discount rack with $5 to $10 clothing.
