Valentine’s Day isn’t just about chocolates and flowers — it’s also the perfect time to show some love to the small businesses that keep our communities thriving! While shopping locally is always a great way to support, there are plenty of free and easy ways to uplift small businesses online.

Whether you’re a loyal customer, a community cheerleader or a fellow business owner, here are five fun and impactful ways to spread the love this Valentine’s Day! 

1. Leave a Heartfelt Review 

Think of your favorite local café, boutique or service provider. When was the last time you left them a review? Online reviews are gold for small businesses — they help build credibility, attract new customers, and boost visibility on search engines.

How to do it: Head to Google, Yelp or Facebook, find their page, and leave a thoughtful review. Be specific! Did they go above and beyond? Do they have the best latte in town? Share the love!

Bonus: Add a photo of your favorite purchase or meal to make your review even more engaging.

2. Engage on Social Media 

A simple like, comment or share can go a long way in boosting a small business’s online presence. The more engagement a post gets, the more people see it. Plus, it’s a super easy way to show appreciation!

How to do it:

  • Like & comment on their latest post
  • Tag a friend who might love their product or service
  • Share their content on your story or page

Bonus: Create a post about a local business you love and tag them! Word-of-mouth marketing is powerful online too.

3. Give Them a Shoutout 

If you love a small business, tell the world! A personal recommendation goes a long way, and social media makes it easier than ever.

How to do it:

  • Post a story or reel showing off your favorite product/service
  • Create a testimonial post on LinkedIn or Facebook
  • Mention them in a local Facebook group when someone asks for recommendations

Bonus: Use hashtags like #SupportLocal and #SmallBusinessLove to help more people find them!

4. Sign Up for Their Emails

Small businesses put a lot of effort into email marketing, and signing up for their newsletter is a simple way to stay connected and support them.

How to do it:

  • Subscribe to their email list on their website
  • Open and engage with their emails (click links, reply, etc.)
  • Share their deals and promotions with friends & family

Bonus: If you really love their content, forward their emails to someone who might be interested!

5. Buy a Gift Card (for Yourself or Someone Else!)

Even if you don’t need something right now, a gift card is a great way to show support while giving yourself (or a friend) something to look forward to.

How to do it:

Purchase a gift card online or in-store

Give it as a Valentine’s Day gift 

Save it for a future purchase

Bonus: Many small businesses offer e-gift cards, making it even easier to send a little love! 

Spread the Love This Valentine’s Day! 

Supporting small businesses doesn’t always mean spending money — it’s about engagement, awareness, and community. By taking just a few minutes to write a review, share a post, or sign up for a newsletter, you can make a huge impact for local entrepreneurs.

So, this Valentine’s Day, let’s show some love to the businesses that bring so much heart to our communities.

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