5 Free Ways to Support a Local Business You Love
Last Winter I had a wonderful experience at Almonds and Corals Boutique Hotel in Costa Rica. I asked a staff member how I could help them stay just as busy as they deserved to be. The answer was “tell your friends”. That answer really struck me. While we all feel overwhelmed with alerts, online options, usernames and passwords, it is still important to share a personal recommendation with your friends. If YOU like a place, an experience, chances are your friends will too! And if you are holding back because you don’t want your favorite place to get TOO BUSY? Now, don’t be stingy. Trust me, your under-discovered local gem won’t lose it’s sparkle if you share it! Whether you’re celebrating by buying NOTHING, or just brainstorming ways to express gratitude and support local, please read on to learn 5 FREE ways to help your favorite places.
1. Bring them up in real-life conversations
Word-of-mouth is still queen in 2025.
When someone says “I need a massage / haircut / gift idea,” mention your spot by name.
Offer to text them the website link right then so they don’t forget.
Those casual recommendations are often how a nervous first-timer finally books.
2. Leave a thoughtful ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review (with specifics)
On Google, maybe Yelp or Facebook too.
Mention what you got (“60-minute massage”), what you loved (“never rushed, great pressure, easy booking”), and the neighborhood.
Photos are gold: a cozy corner, the front door, the view from the waiting area.
This directly helps them show up in search when new people Google “massage near me” or “best coffee in [your city].”
3. Share them on social like you would a friend
Post a quick story or reel after a visit.
Tag the business and, if you’re comfy, say why you like them (“my go-to spot when my shoulders are fried from work”).
Save, like, comment, AND SHARE their posts so the algorithm doesn’t bury them.
No need to be an influencer; a few genuine posts from real locals go a long way.
4. Join their email or text list—and actually open their stuff
Opt in to emails/texts and don’t unsubscribe the second the holidays are over.
When they send something helpful (FAQs, booking tips, events), click through—that engagement helps them know what’s working.
Even just staying on the list helps them market more affordably than constantly chasing new people with ads.
5. Show up for their events & “signal boost” them
Attend things like open houses, classes, tastings, or Small Business Saturday events.
When they announce an event, share it or tag a friend who might genuinely love it.
A full room (or a solid RSVP list) makes those events worth repeating—and repeat events keep the business alive and visible.