MAHONING & SHENANGO VALLEYS - For small business Saturday, customers went to many locally owned businesses to show their support. Many mom and pop shops across the Mahoning and Shenango Valleys were no exception to that.

While small business Saturday is meant to help business in the area, it also helps communities.

Cities throughout the area had events for small business Saturday. Despite the cold weather, many people lined up, ready to shop at smaller businesses. 

Beth Carlson, owner of Lydalia Gardens, said this one day every year helps her and other small businesses get yearlong business.

"It just keeps people coming back, which is really important. Not just one day, but to come all year long," said Carlson.

Customers visited cities, stopping by small businesses. 

Angie Urban, executive director of Sharon Community Development corporation, said supporting the businesses is important for the future of the downtown.

“Small businesses in Sharon are part of the lifeblood and fabric of our community. And so without them, you know, Sharon is pretty desolate. But with them, Sharon is really becoming alive again,” said Urban.

One of the goals of celebrating small business Saturday is to bring more business to the downtown.

“Our downtown is 70% capacity, which we’re very proud of. We’re looking to bring as many businesses into downtown Sharon as possible,” said Jeff Feola, director of community and economic development for the Sharon community development corporation. 

Customers spent the day shopping to show support to the community and the families behind the businesses.

“I think it's important for us to support small businesses because it brings the community together,” said Danielle Hawkins, Sharon.

“We feel like it's important. You know, to keep the small businesses going, especially after the pandemic,” said Michelle Hall, Sharon.

One customer and her family made small business Saturday a yearly tradition.

“It's easier to order off of Amazon, but it's a lot more impactful to be supporting the small businesses and knowing where your money is going,” said Taylor Ivring, Sharon.

Best Life Boutique is one of many small businesses in Hermitage. The owner of the boutique said her work as a small business owner is important to her.

“I grew up in a family that actually started with a small business that grew in this town. So it's definitely a place that is special in my heart,” said Krissy Pedicini, owner of Best Life Boutique.

Krissy’s daughter helps with the business. She feels the family’s work allows the community to grow closer.

“Small businesses can create a relationship with their customers that's different than big box stores. I feel that's really important to recognize,” said Lydia Grabowski, Best Life Boutique

Some of the cities offered incentives to customers.

In Sharon, the first 100 shoppers were given a tote bag full of items from nearby businesses. Shoppers in Hermitage and Hubbard who filled out a card by visiting small businesses were entered into prize drawings.