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Small businesses in Columbia you’d cry over if closed

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Blue Flour Bakery | Photo by @1sammorris

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Columbia is full of unique small businesses that are worth celebrating. 🥂 New ones are opening all the time – helping boost not only our vibes, but our economy.

This is something called the “Multiplier Effect.” #Fact - According to American Independent Business Alliance (AIBA), the multiplier effect is the boost to your local economy that results from locally-owned, independent businesses, owners and employees spending business revenue within the region. In a number of studies on AIBA’s site, a proven 48% return to the community occurs when you spend locally – vs. a 13.6% return when shopping at a chain retail.

So we asked you on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter to tell us which small businesses you would cry over if they closed, and we received ~150 responses. Shed a tear with us as we list some local businesses that would be your most-missed (in no particular order).

Uptown on Main

“...because they are my “go to” place for gifts. #shoplocal” – @KimAWilkerson

“Martha has saved me from an embarrassing amount of “last minute gift” jams. Love

@UptownOnMain!” – @rtcoleman7

Saluda’s Restaurant

“best food in the city, and what a beautiful spot too! – @beckybrog

“the food is amazing & it has the best view ❤️😘 – Joanne C.

Nickelodeon Theatre

“they bring us culture.” – Susan L.

Loveland Coffee

“The coffee & the people are the greatest 💖 – @vintagemiddle

Sweet Cream Co.

“best homemade ice cream and unique flavors! Definitely a place I stop by whenever I’m visiting home!” – @nabihahkumte

“sweetcreamco Joe and Jess are the best! I’ve been going for years! The best ice cream!” – @c2girl2002

Cantina 76

“they have the best tacos and my first date with my boyfriend was there!” – Ali C.

“because they are the best in the state!” – Hayley M.

The Market Tea Room at Senate’s End

“I would miss not only the tea and scones but the wonderful sense of community and home that Jennifer has created.” – Felecia H.

Silver Spoon Bakeshop

“The coffee/treats are some of the best I’ve ever had and I love love love their atmosphere. 😍– @devonhansford

“Best bakery.” – Melody H.

The Gourmet Shop

“Best One,One and One!!!!” – Lily B.

“Their chicken salad” – @ShealyReibold

Chickenbutt Donuts

“best donuts in the midlands!!” – @wingowashernameo

Crave Artisan Market

“I would be heartbroken forever!!!” – @lmlindy

Messie’s Closet

“LOVE YOU AND ALL YA CLOTHES😍🔥🔥 – @mad_stace

“my favorite place to shop in town! I always find the best clothes there, she keeps me stylish 💁– @_jenny_wren

No Name Deli

“Best lunch in town and best people.” – Lindsey B.

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