Small businesses are an essential part of the economy and promote competition. They offer more selection, personalized items and face to face conversations. Shopping from a small business gives me a feeling of supporting my local community and getting to know someone who is doing what they love. I have always tried to shop small but it can be easy to fall away from this. So, recently I have made an effort to purposely start shopping small. If you are in need of an item or want a specific item take time to research who you can support instead of running to a big box store.