ROCKFORD (WREX) — With the holidays quickly approaching, Rockford businesses are in full gear to make sure this season is a successful one.
Shoppers are busy looking for gifts, as are businesses for customers.
“We’re trying to let the community know we’re here,” said Bonnie Jefferson, owner of Bonnie’s Boutique. “We’re the ones that support a community so we need the support of the community.”
Support, that doesn’t fade away even during a stressful pandemic.
“We just do the best that we can,” said Jefferson. “We just try to work with the neighborhood, the community, and with community leaders.”
As well as with fellow business owners in the Stateline. A combination that keeps everyone afloat.
Jefferson invited multiple small businesses to a space next to her store during ‘Jingle on the Mile’. Which included Vache Fleming, owner of Sheer Essence Bling.
“We have to support one another,” said Fleming. “If we don’t support one another then we can’t expect anyone else to.”
Fleming adds that ‘Jingle on the Mile’ allows small businesses to get the exposure that they deserve.
“You get the personal touch with a small business,” said Fleming. “You don’t get personal touch with a larger business.”
But among these business owners, few treat it as a competition. Rather, as a support group for each other.
“When you see people, it’s not like a competition,” said Fleming. “As with larger companies, everything is a competition.”
Even after the holiday season is over, Jefferson encourages people to don’t stop buying local.
“Just come and shop,” said Jefferson. “We’re going to be here next week, two weeks, three weeks, just come and shop.”
Teamwork, passion, and love for their community are small businesses in the Stateline.