Community Shows Up In Support For Small Business Saturday

SALT LAKE CITY — Approximately 57% of consumers said they are anxious about shopping in person, but that didn’t stop people from showing up for Small Business Saturday at 9th and 9th.

“The whole 9th and 9th community is all practically local,” said Nicole Choules-Paul, co-owner of Salt & Honey.

It’s a pillar America was built on: small businesses.

“Hi, are you ready?” said Choules-Paul.

One of the busiest days of the year for local makers store Salt & Honey came with new deals — limited capacity of 30 people at a time, masks, and lots of cleaning.

“Being able to open again has been very helpful,” said Choules-Paul.

The co-owner showcases 150 mostly local vendors in her stores.

“Is this what you wanted?” Nicole said to a customer.

The store was full throughout the day with shoppers coming out for Small Business Saturday.

What a turnout for #SmallBusinessSaturday at 9th and 9th!

I spoke with multiple businesses on how their 2020 has looked. Full story at 5 on @KSL5TV pic.twitter.com/EVFDmSJO4u

— Morgan Wolfe (@MorganWolfeNews) November 28, 2020

“You get to enjoy the Christmas music, be with family, and you’re out,” said a customer. “I think if you are wearing your mask and doing your best to social distance, you will be just fine.”

Coules-Paul said it was devastating for them to shut down for two months.

“We were forced to get creative,” she said.

Salt & Honey started selling items online.

“It saved us,” said Nicole.

Across the street, Publik, had to take a different route.

“We reopened in August for only take out,” said Vi Tran with Publik. “It’s been an adjustment. Typically on the weekends, we have back-to-back tables.”

Tran said the community has been their saving grace.

“We have had tons of regulars and new customers be really supportive in buying takeout and coffee,” she said.

The same energy has been felt at Salt & Honey.

“It’s great because you are giving back to Utah. You are giving back to our economy,” said the customer.