Better Business Bureau

After the crowds and chaos of Black Friday sales, shoppers can check out the local and independent businesses participating in Small Business Saturday, a day to celebrate small businesses for all they do for their communities.

According to the Consumer Insights Survey, 95 million people shopped with small businesses on Small Business Saturday last year.

The promotion was started by American Express, a Better Business Bureau-accredited business. The bureau is supporting Small Business Saturday for the fifth year and urges consumers to support small businesses in their community.

The Better Business Bureau offers the following tips when you “shop small” on Small Business Saturday:

• Get involved. Many communities are hosting special promotions, and being involved in Small Business Saturday shows that you support businesses in your community. Find out what local promotions are happening in your area on the Small Business Saturday website or check with the local chamber or merchants association.

• Do your research. Check out businesses ahead of time and find out what past customers have to say at bbb.org. Find out what stores and businesses in your area are participating in Small Business Saturday by going to shopsmall.org.

• Sign up for email alerts. Many stores have Small Business Saturday specials just for people who have signed up to receive their emails.

• Check social media. Many small businesses will advertise their sales on social media, so be sure to check your favorite small businesses on Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram. Use #ShopSmall to search for information or to share plans with your friends.

• Invite your friends and family. Visit your favorite local stores, try some new ones, get a head start on the holidays and enjoy time with loved ones.

• Ask for gift receipts and save warranty information. Be sure to pass along any information about returns, exchanges, repairs and warranties to the person who will use the item.

Check out bbb.org to look up a business, file a complaint, write a customer review, report a scam, read tips, follow social media, and more.