Lodi stores prepare for shopping blitz

After the bird is cooked and eaten, the big rush for holiday shopping begins with Black Friday and Small Business Saturday.

Locally owned businesses are gearing up for shoppers by offering special events and sales this four-day weekend.

Downtown Lodi businesses will be having their annual Open House event for Small Business Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., with many businesses serving refreshments and inviting the community in for a pleasant day of shopping away from the bustle of department stores.

Fashion Safari and the California Store will be offering door prizes as long as supplies last, which include Jelly Belly samples and some popular candles sold at the shop.

Shoppers who spend more than $25 will receive a free gift of Christmas socks. Those who spend more than $50 will receive free poinsettias. There will also be an enter-to-win giveaway as well.

“It is the single busiest shopping day of the year. It’s important to shop at small businesses because that keeps small businesses working in town,” said Tammy Blair, owner of Fashion Safari and the California Store. She explained that many businesses also give back to the community and bring in products that were sourced locally. Fashion Safari offers locally-made products as well as fashion apparel. The store will be open on Black Friday also from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

La Fleurette Garden Decor already had its big open house last weekend, but will be welcoming shoppers this weekend to peruse the holiday home decor, many of which were created by local-based, or at least United States-based, artisans. Owner Sandy Padgett said the store is all decked out for Christmas so shoppers

can get in the spirit of the holidays.

“Not to mention, I like seeing everyone,” she added.

The store is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Friday and Saturday.

McKinley’s Frame Shop is

offering a sale this year with 20 percent off all gift and home decor items and 10 percent off custom framing. With a purchase of $20 or more, shoppers can be entered to win a raffle basket valued at more than $100.

There are countless other sales and interesting finds throughout Lodi, whether you visit Downtown, Lakewood Mall, or shops along Kettleman and Cherokee lanes.

What may be important about shopping local is the impact

it can have on the local economy, from helping out neighbors who own businesses to keeping jobs local, said Pat Patrick, CEO and president of the Lodi District Chamber of Commerce.

“It helps keep our tax dollars

in the community. We need tax dollars to help pay for police, fire and public safety, parks and all other city departments,” he said.