MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) — In the lull between the Black Friday and Cyber Monday savings, shoppers still had a chance to help the local economy.

Saturday was the second annual Small Business Saturday. It’s a day dedicated to supporting small businesses on the busiest shopping weekend of the year.

At Creative Kidstuff, there wasn’t quite the hustle and bustle of Black Friday, but a steady stream of customers marked the start of a good day.  Susan Ward helped that small business compete with the large retailers.

“You’re getting quality. I’m a big quality person,” said Susan Ward, who participated in Small Business Saturday. “I’m happy I support it,” said Ward.

The idea is for consumers to buy from a local business to help boost the local economy.

“It benefits the whole community, the people that work here in the community, shop here in the community.  It makes the community healthy,” said Marilyn Utter, manager at Creative Kidstuff.

On a weekend when retailers offer some of the biggest savings, small businesses can’t always offer the same deals. Instead, locally owned businesses rely on one-of-a-kind gifts and customer service to draw in shoppers.

“I like the unique character, finding something for someone. It’s a little different,” said Kelli Mork, a shopper who prefers locally owned stores.

Shopping small this holiday season could have a huge impact.

“To me, one new face means ten new faces down the road. It makes a huge difference,” said Elizabeth Tanberg, owner of Hill Valley Boutique.

Nearly three million people pledged, via Facebook, to shop at a small business.