After turkey, go shopping on Saturday

Bridgeport, Conn. (WTNH) - Everybody knows about Black Friday, but now the city of Bridgeport wants you to know about a new day, Small Business Saturday. The mayor hopes it will encourage folks to come out and support local businesses.

Stores like Jimmy's that has been around for more than 90 years.

Dave Schneider, Owner of Jimmy's said, "It's the ultimate in small business stories, my grandfather was Jimmy and he purchased this store for $380."

"When was that?"

"1920," Schneider answered.  

Flash forward nearly a century later, and small businesses are struggling more than ever to keep up with the large discount retailers.

"It's great in terms of saying you're a small business owner, but it's a tough battle to battle the big chains," said Schneider.

Mayor Bill Finch hopes to give small businesses an edge on Saturday, a day he's declared is all about keeping it local.

"The city of Bridgeport believes small businesses are the backbone of our economy and the glue that holds the community together," Mayor Finch said.

Gumdrop Swap is owned by Gabrielle Fludd. She's one of a handful of small business owners inside the Arcade Mall who hopes the attention will lead to increased foot traffic and business at her shop.

"It's always important to shop local because when you support your local businesses they grow, they can hire local it increases the economy and helps everyone," said Fludd.

She says many residents don't even know her store or others are in the mall.

"[Toppings Cupcakes] is kind of like the Cold Stone of cupcakes. You tell us what you like. We make everything homemade. We use a lot of organic, fresh ingredients and we put a lot of love into what we do," said Maza Rey.
 
From fresh food to hand me down clothes, these stores need your help this holiday season.
 
Rey said, "It's a challenge, but it's one we feel up to. We're going to keep doing it, we're going to keep investing in Bridgeport."
 
Spend your heart out on Black Friday, just make sure you leave enough to shop local on Saturday.