
Small Business Saturday on Nov. 27 is an opportunity to shop at and support local businesses, which are the backbone of many towns and cities. The U.S. Senate unanimously voted in support of Small Business Saturday in 2011, which means this is the holiday's 10th anniversary! Make sure you get out there and shop at locally owned Rockford businesses in celebration. Our real estate agents have a few excellent shops to recommend.
- Salvaged by Sonya: 330 E. State St., Rockford, IL 61104
Salvaged by Sonya is a local retailer of vintage, retro, and re-purposed goods. The store opened in 2011 — the same year that Small Business Saturday officially began. You'll find all sorts of unique trinkets on their shelves, from vintage lamps to embroidered pillows.
This would be a great place to do some holiday shopping or find some fun decor for your new home. The owners also hold estate sales if you're ever in need of that service.
- London Avenue Designs: 214 E. State St., Rockford, IL 61104
London Avenue Designs is a small shop offering custom decor and floral arrangements. They create stunning bouquets for every big holiday. You'll also find lots of other seasonal decorations, such as hand-decorated pumpkins for fall. From candles to greeting cards, there are tons of little gifts and niceties to browse.
London Avenue Designs is open from 10 am - 3 pm on Saturdays. They're also open on Friday afternoons if you want to celebrate Small Business Saturday a bit early.
- Bath & Body Fusion: 324 E. State St., Rockford, IL 61104
Take a break from looking at Rockford homes for sale, and pamper yourself at Bath & Body Fusion. This locally owned bath store creates their own products using high-quality oils, fruits, veggies, and herbs.
Some favorite products at Bath & Body Fusion are their bath bombs, body scrubs, and shower steamers. They also offer their own line of soy candles, known for being clean-burning and great for people with allergies. The shop offers discounts for healthcare heroes and is very involved in community events.
- Culture Shock: 2239 Charles St., Rockford, IL 61104
Culture Shock is a record store that also sells clothing and music-themed gifts. The store first opened in 2006, and the selection has grown ever since. You'll find all sorts of funky accessories, from studded belts to feathered hats. Culture Shock also carries vintage audio equipment and vinyl records.
If you have some unwanted vintage records sitting around, this is the place to take them. The store is always looking for 12-inch and 7-inch records to buy and resell. They welcome a range of genres, from punk rock to jazz.
- Minglewood: 333 E. State St., Rockford, IL 61104
Minglewood is a locally owned clothing retailer with an emphasis on eco-friendly designs. They carry clothing made from natural fibers, like hemp and cotton. Many of the fashions could be described as Boho or artistic. You'll find colorful dresses, pants, tops, and even shoes.
Minglewood also carries a line of earth-friendly soaps in scents like patchouli and lavender. All products are made with U.S.-produced or fair-trade materials. The shop is open Wednesday - Saturday for your shopping needs.
Whether you stop by one of these stores or several, make sure you take some time out to shop local on Small Business Saturday. Rockford is home to so many wonderful businesses, and they need the support of customers to thrive. Contact us if you're new to the area and need assistance finding the perfect home. Our real estate agents will be happy to help.