Small Business Saturday a Hit for Pacific Grove Stores - Central Coast News KION/KCBA

PACIFIC GROVE, Calif. - Today marks a national day known as "Small Business Saturday" and a day to help the local economy.

Rose Mary Valuch is an eleven year veteran when it comes to handling holiday shoppers. 
  
"I think people make a conscious effort, as they learn more about it, every year. They consciously shop small business and they tell us how excited they are too support out local businesses," said Valuch.

She said the Small Business Saturday has been a hit for Miss Trawick's Garden Shop on Lighthouse Avenue in Pacific Grove.

"Always good, usually picks up in the afternoon, the mornings always start out slow but picks up as the day goes on," added Valuch.

But at the other end of the street, Maritas Boutique owner, Marita Johnson says she is hopeful for a busy weekend but Black Friday has always been traditionally busier.
 
"Well last year we actually had a better Friday but hopefully this year will have lots of business," Johnson told me.

But there was one thing that both owners were able to agree on and that was small businesses know there is no competing with the big businesses, but they have the upper hand, they go above and beyond with their customer service.

Valuch said their community knows how much stores, like her size, need the shoppers.

"I think a lot of people understand the value of it by shopping here in town, we create jobs and the local economy. Its much more fun than fighting the traffic."