7 Ways to Support Local Small Businesses in West Seattle

You’ve probably heard the slogan “shop local” but why is it so important? Small businesses have a huge impact on our community and local economy. They provide various unique products and services, and not only are small businesses operated by our neighbors, friends, and families, they also create more job opportunities! 

Supporting local businesses is one of the best ways to strengthen your community. But supporting doesn’t always have to mean shopping. There are several things you can do to help local business owners in addition to purchasing their goods and services. Below we’ve compiled a list of seven different ways you can offer your support to small businesses, we’ve even given you a few of our favorite shops right here in West Seattle. 

Image from Destination Hotels.

1. Shop Locally 

One of the most impactful ways to support small businesses is, of course, by shopping at them. It’s a simple tip, but it really is one of the best ways to ensure they continue to be a part of your community. All of the money you spend locally goes directly to supporting members of your community and then back into your local economy. 

If you’re looking for some places to check out here in West Seattle, we recommend getting your weekly groceries at PCC, a local co-op grocery store that sells lots of locally grown and organic foods. They pride themselves on protecting the health and wellness of our community by working exclusively with Pacific Northwest farmers, ranchers, and makers and dedicating themselves to preserving local farmlands. After you've finished shopping, be sure to use Jill and Joey’s reusable bags- a sustainable way to store food and snacks in your fridge, freezer, or when you’re on the go (also a Seattle-based brand). If you’re looking to step outside and go for a nice stroll, we love to pick up our produce directly from the hands that grow it at the West Seattle Farmers Market.

Image from PCC Markets. 

2. Spread the word 

Another great way to show support for local businesses is to spread the word. If you’re a fan of a shop in your neighborhood, odds are other people will be too. So whether it’s mentioning it to your neighbors in passing, or sharing your experience with your family and friends. Every new person you tell is a potential new customer for the business you love.

Our family is really big on shopping at and spreading the word about our favorite female-owned businesses, like Wend. Wend is an eco and ethical jewelry artisan business created by Wendy Woldenberg after she witnessed firsthand the detrimental impact that gold mines have on the environment. So if you’re in the market for jewelry, but are working on reducing your carbon footprint, pop into Wend. And if you happen to walk out with a few new rings on your fingers, you might want to consider getting a manicure at Opal nail salon. Opal is another female-owned and operated establishment that offers excellent and high-quality salon services using nontoxic products and polishes. They work hard to create a safe and welcoming environment for all.

3. Post on social media

While word of mouth is an incredibly powerful way of supporting small businesses, sharing their social media accounts and posting across your network is an even easier and more effective way to expand their reach. You can share original content from the official business account or simply share your experience on your personal account and be sure to tag them so others can easily find them!

You could treat yourself to a haircut, blowout, or any other hair treatment at Treo Organic Salon, and post your fresh cut on Instagram. Or you could go to West Seattle Nursery to add some extra greenery to your home and share their lovely selection of plants or your new leafy friend on your Instagram story. Or if you’re in the mood for an outdoor adventure, take a guided hike tour with Explore Outdoors and tag their account when you brag to your friends about how beautiful Washington is!

4. Donate and tip

In addition to shopping at local businesses, consider donating or tipping as well. Your favorite barista at the coffee shop down the street appreciates your tips just as much as the owner appreciates your business. Tipping is a great way to express your gratitude for a service, especially in the food and beverage, and wellness service industries. While not all organizations accept tips, a lot accept donations! In fact, for some, donations are what keep their doors open. 

The West Seattle Tool Library is an amazing place to rent tools for your next home project. As a non-profit, they rely on people’s generous donations to stay up and running. If you use their services or simply support their mission, you can donate to them here. We’re also big fans of Easy Street Records. This is another famous local spot in West Seattle that sells records, hosts live performances, and has a cafe/bar area. You can show your support by donating any used CDs or vinyl records, or offer to volunteer in the many live shows they host every year.

5. Leave a positive review

Reviews are one of the first things people see when researching new places to visit. Leaving a positive review can have a massive impact on the success of local businesses. It’s a quick and easy way to show your appreciation, plus your recommendations are extremely helpful for those interested in going. 

If you’re looking for a new outfit, go to Cherry Consignment, a West Seattle clothing store, and leave a review about your experience and drop some photos of the cool new stuff you scored! Or go to Otter on the Rocks, a local cocktail bar, and review their delicious seasonal menu and uniquely mixed specials and their friendly and knowledgeable staff, of course.

Image from Cherry Consignment. 

6. Buy a gift card

Gift cards are an easy gift to give to the person who has everything or the person who doesn’t seem to want anything. Aside from getting you out of having to make difficult decisions, gift cards are great because they’re also a gift to the business you buy from! Buying gift cards from local shops ensures future business and brings in new faces, two things small organizations can’t live without.

You’d be surprised how many different types of places sell gift cards. Got a friend or loved one passionate about skincare? A gift card from Spruce Apothecary, a local skincare studio, is your answer. Know someone who loves sushi? Get them a gift card at Mashiko, a Japanese restaurant committed to only servicing sustainable seafood. Lady Jaye, a local meat shop, is an excellent choice for someone who loves specialty steaks, cuts, and smoked meats. Or if you have an artistic friend, get them a gift card from Northwest Art & Frame, an art supplies and craft store that specializes in custom and ready-made picture frames. 

7. Contract their services or collaborate with their organization

Lastly, one of the best ways to support your local small businesses is by fostering a lasting relationship with them. Rather than just a one-time exchange or transaction, small businesses love repeat customers and ways to collaborate with other organizations in their community. Whether you’re planning a family event, looking to build professional partnerships, or you know a market or festival that could use a few extra vendors, think of your favorite local business first.

We love partnering with C&P Coffee, a local coffee house that serves freshly brewed coffee during the day and hosts unique small events at night. We’re both avid coffee drinkers and love hosting, so you could imagine why we’re a great fit. We also recommend checking out Molly’s Bottle Shop, a local natural wine shop. You can put your name on the waitlist for Molly’s Bottle Club, a subscription service that includes four bottles of natural wine a month, invitations to exclusive tasting events, and more. If you’re thinking about catering, think Husky Deli. Husky is a family-owned deli shop that offers delicious food and amazing catering services. 

Image from Molly's Bottle Shop. 

Small businesses are run by our neighbors, employ members of our community, and create a sense of trust and togetherness. From shopping to sharing, there are many things you can do to support local organizations that work hard to earn your business. West Seattle is made better by each and every one of the businesses mentioned above and so many more. Follow us on social media and subscribe to our newsletter to get our latest recommendations, news, events, and blogs about West Seattle straight to your inbox!