Shop Locally in Wayland on Small Business Saturday on Nov. 24

Small Business Saturday is on Nov. 24 this year, two days after Thanksgiving. It is a day for everyone to support the small businesses that their community thrives on.

American Express founded the day in 2010 to help small businesses get exposure during the holiday season, when they might be otherwise overlooked. With retailers buzzing around the holidays, it is important to support local small businesses that rely on their neighbors in order to continue prospering and building the local economy in Wayland.

Ranny Lawless opened Elizabeth Lee Boutique in 2006, so she's had a few years to grasp the importance of shopping local, but it's not just for the business owners.

"Support your local businesses," Lawless said. "That's where you find creativity and uniqueness."

Last year, 100 million people nationwide participated in Small Business Saturday by shopping at locally owned stores to help boost the economy and their communities.

A few local options:

• Especially for Pets
• Elizabeth Lee Boutique
• Michelle's Jewelry Boutique
• Mahoney's Garden Center
• Russell's Garden Center
• Trove
• The Gift Gallery
• Florentine Frames

You can also “like” Small Business Saturday on Facebook by visiting www.facebook.com/shopsmall.

Everyone has locally owned businesses in their community, and shopping on Small Business Saturday is the perfect way to give back to the businesses you know and love in your community.

TELL US: What small businesses do you patronize in your town and what makes them great? Share in the comments below.