By Morgan Goddard, Assistant Editor

The freedom of summer also comes with the freedom of shopping. For most people, when they are away at college, they make due with large grocery stores in the area. However, in the months that school is out, we should try and buy from small businesses instead of large companies. 

Small business surround our everyday lives in a surprisingly large amount of ways. Think about the amount of time, labor, and commitment these hard working individuals contribute to make their business come to fruition; it is very impressive. However, many Americans frequently shop at large chain stores with the thought of small businesses not even crossing their minds. The local merchant is here, yet we do not even consider them.

In Wellsburg, W. Va., there is a small establishment called Drover’s Inn and Tavern. This place is truly a hidden gem. One of the crowd favorites is its wings. I live about an hour and a half away, and my own family would rather make the trip to Drover’s than eat somewhere nearby. Although Quaker Stake and Lube is in the same area, many people come out in large crowds to Drovers Inn and Tavern. “It’s like a big family, and everyone treats you like a part of it,” said frequent diner Cody Stepanek.

Small businesses are an integral part of our lives. They provide “flavor” to our towns, and make growing up where you did an experience.  Where I’m from, everyone can talk about what it’s like to eat at Choo Choo’s, get coffee at Baristas Café and Pub, or shop at the Tin Ceiling. For someone else I’m sure they have their own store that they have memories of.

Small businesses are so important, there’s even a day to celebrate them! Small Business Saturday, which takes place the Saturday following Thanksgiving, is between Black Friday and Cyber Monday. Do not wait until Small Business Saturday though; make it a mission this summer to check out all of the small businesses in your area. You will be surprised at what you might find, the people you will meet, and the memories you will make.

Photo by the WV State Journal