
While it seems that national big-box retailers dominate the landscape, more than 99 percent of our country's businesses are small. As we head into the holiday season, show your support for these shops and restaurants that are the backbone of our economy.
Celebrate Small Business Saturday on November 26 by shopping at these wonderful locations around Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky.
2692 Madison Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45208
Do you love the thrill of holding a new book in your hand, ready to open to the first page? Whether you're looking for bestsellers, classics, or non-fiction, you'll find it at Joseph-Beth Booksellers. Membership in their Gives Back Rewards Program sends a portion of your purchases to a community partner of your choice. It also earns you great perks, such as in-store discounts and coupons for the Brontë Bistro. Hours are 8 a.m. - 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 9 a.m. - 8 p.m. Sunday.
7560 Burlington Pike, Florence, KY 41042
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Bicycles and caffeine may not seem like a natural pairing, but a visit to Velocity Bike & Bean could change your perspective. When owner Mark Ball, a gifted bicycle mechanic, opened his bike shop in 2011, he and his wife Lisa decided to combine the venture with their passion for craft coffee. The selection of pastries and breakfast sandwiches always includes some vegan and gluten-free options. Velocity Bike & Bean is open Tuesday through Friday from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. - 2 p.m.
3944 Spring Grove Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45233
"Here's looking at you, kid," when you're done up in the finest fashion from Casablanca Vintage. Opened in 1985, the shops specialized in pre-1970s menswear, especially for film and theater use. Casablanca Vintage has since expanded to include clothing for all genders, with most pieces coming from the 1920s to the 1990s. While they still work with the film and theater industry, the shop welcomes anyone interested in classic clothing. Hours are noon - 6 p.m. daily except Sunday when doors close at 5 p.m.
10021 Lower River Rd., Rabbit Hash, KY 41005
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When it comes to small businesses, Rabbit Hash General Store has attained legendary status. This delightful throwback to classic American general stores has been in operation since 1831. Named for a local culinary specialty, Rabbit Hash General Store draws residents and tourists alike with its eclectic mix of antiques, gifts, housewares, and countless other products. Commemorate your visit with a logoed t-shirt, hat, mug, or flask, and share the Rabbit Hash spirit with unique gift baskets that can be shipped around the country. Hours are 10 a.m. - 6 p.m., seven days a week.
135 W. Elder St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
Just bought a new home or getting ready to sell? Dress it up in style with accessories from Deerhaus Decor. Owners Sonja and Ben curate the products in their store with an eye toward sustainability and small-batch manufacturing. Eco-friendly products on their shelves include soy candles, biodegradable sponges, and reusable food wraps. Some items are actually made by Sonja herself, who has her own studio that features natural plant-dye services and vintage repairs. Deerhaus Decor is open 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Wednesday through Friday, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Saturday, and 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Sunday.
122 W. Loveland Ave., Loveland, OH 45140
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Music lovers are rediscovering the pure sound of vinyl. Start your collection or add to an existing one at Plaid Room Records. The family-owned shop, opened in 2015, is an offshoot of their Colemine Records label and analog studio. More than 20,000 LPs are stocked in-house, and you can search their inventory of used 45s for gems from Bill Haley & the Comets, Sam Cooke, and Talking Heads. Pre-order the hottest upcoming releases to reserve your copy. Hours are noon - 7 p.m. weekdays, 11 a.m. - 8 p.m. Saturday, and noon - 5 p.m. Sunday.
8141 Mall Rd., Florence, KY 41042
Fans of small- and big-screen epics such as Game of Thrones and The Lord of the Rings aren't content simply to watch. Cosplay lets viewers immerse themselves in these make-believe worlds, and The Dragon's Hoard covers all genres, from sci-fi and fantasy to steampunk and anime. Be sure to check out their namesake dragon collection, including banners, jewelry, and figurines. Hours are noon - 8 p.m. Monday through Saturday.
2807 Woodburn Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45206
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No matter how busy the holidays get, it's important to take time for yourself. &Sundries is full of luxurious products that are perfect for pampering. Treat yourself to some pumpkin and spice whipped soap, raspberry vanilla bubble bath, or peppermint body lotion. After your bath, cozy up with a soft robe, throw blanket, and neck wrap. Of course, all the amazing handcrafted items make terrific gifts as well. &Sundries is open Tuesday through Friday from noon - 7 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m., and Sunday from noon - 5 p.m.
Take a break from shopping for some family-friendly entertainment at one of the more unique venues around. Located in the Ludlow Theatre, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Bircus Brewing Company presents Circus Mojo matinees each weekend at 2 p.m. Afterward, try your hand at spinning plates or swinging on the trapeze. The theater/brewery also hosts a great lineup of concerts and serves up artisan wood-fired pizzas, such as the signature Goetta Grip. Bircus Brewing Company is open 4 - 10 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday, 4 p.m. - midnight Friday, noon - midnight Saturday, and noon - 8 p.m. Sunday.
Have you nurtured a dream to start your own business? If so, what would it be?