Celebrating Small Business Success: 2024 Shop Local, Shop Now Press Conference at Belcourt Village
Belcourt Village proudly hosted this year’s Shop Local, Shop Now Press Conference, an event dedicated to celebrating local businesses and encouraging community support for Bakersfield entrepreneurs. Organized by the Greater Bakersfield Chamber, this annual initiative comes just in time for Small Business Saturday, reminding us of the power of shopping locally to enrich our community.
The Shop Local, Shop Now campaign champions the importance of supporting locally owned businesses, particularly during the holiday season. With Small Business Saturday—a nationwide initiative promoted by American Express—on the Saturday following Thanksgiving, this campaign energizes communities to choose local, strengthening our economy and fostering connections.
When we shop locally, we make an investment in our community. By supporting local entrepreneurs, we ensure their continued success and enhance Bakersfield’s vibrant and diverse marketplace.
Spotlight on Bakersfield Entrepreneurs
The press conference featured inspiring insights from local business owners who’ve experienced firsthand the benefits of community support:
- Mira Patel, Owner of Drybar, reflected on her journey, saying, “Bakersfield has embraced my small business, and I’m proud to be part of this amazing community.”
- Irene Clancy, Owner of Pilates Barre and Vecchio’s, shared her perspective on the deeper impact of small businesses, noting, “Small businesses are more than storefronts; they’re where relationships and connections grow.”
Their stories serve as reminders of the vital role community plays in sustaining the dreams of entrepreneurs and the unique offerings they bring to Bakersfield.
Belcourt Village: A Hub for Small Business Success
Jeff Eittreim, Vice President of Bolthouse Properties, highlighted Belcourt Village’s role as a cornerstone for local entrepreneurship. Further noting that of the 76 tenants within Bolthouse Properties’ shopping centers, an impressive 84% are locally owned and operated.
Eittreim emphasized the mission of Belcourt Village, stating, “Belcourt Village is more than just a shopping destination; it’s a vibrant community where aspirations take shape and local businesses flourish.” By fostering growth in the heart of Seven Oaks, Belcourt Village ensures that Bakersfield’s small businesses have the support and environment needed to thrive.
Looking Ahead
Belcourt Village and the Greater Bakersfield Chamber are committed to advancing local entrepreneurship, increasing revenue for businesses, and fostering a community where innovation and connection thrive. Events like the Shop Local, Shop Now Press Conference shine a spotlight on the power of shopping local, underscoring the vital role each of us plays in shaping a prosperous and vibrant Bakersfield.
As Small Business Saturday approaches, let’s all take the opportunity to support our local entrepreneurs and make a meaningful impact on our community. Together, we can ensure that Bakersfield remains a city where small businesses not only survive but flourish.
