Once we’ve had our fill of Thanksgiving dinner, for many families attention turned to Black Friday shopping and the rush to the next big holiday. And sure, there’s a certain adrenaline rush that goes along with grabbing those Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals.

But while you’re planning your shopping, don’t forget there are small, locally owned businesses throughout our communities hoping you’ll stop by to see the gifts you can’t get by rushing the doors at midnight and snagging five of the same thing everyone else is buying.

On Small Business Saturday, which takes place today, you’ve got a chance to find something special — and maybe even find your new favorite local shop. (After all, they’re hoping you’ll visit their store on more than one day a year.)

This year is the 15th anniversary of Small Business Saturday as an event.

During that time, you’ve read all the standard lines: Sure, you’ll go to the big box stores to save a dollar or two, but who do you go to when you need a sponsor for your organization’s next event or uniforms for your kid’s team? All the money you spend at a small, locally owned shop stays right here in your community. You’re not just helping one business, you’re helping your entire community.

All those things are true.

But you’re also giving yourself the chance at a better holiday shopping experience and more thoughtful gifts to give –frankly, at many local small businesses, the staff and owner would love to help you get a personalized shopping experience so you can find just the right gift. You’re giving yourself the knowledge that you might very well walk into a shop and be greeted by the owner, who can answer your questions and help you find the perfect gift for the individuals on your list.

Those shop owners need you, yes. But you — and our communities — need them, too. Small businesses continue to be the backbone of our nation. More than 90% of all businesses in this country are considered small businesses. And of those, half have between one and four employees.

Think about that and the difference you can make by shopping locally.

Enjoy your leftovers. Take it easy knowing that if you miss the mega, super, blowout Black Friday “must-have” deals from the big guys, there’s still a world of unique shopping opportunities waiting in communities across the Upper Ohio Valley, where small businesses will be happy to help you Saturday.

Shop local. Support local businesses and families. It’s the community-minded thing to do.