The 2014 holiday shopping season is becoming a small business success story.
That's the case in the Village of East Davenport.
Holiday shopping kept Freddy's Fritters a cut above this December.
"The holiday season was awesome," said owner Tami Grady.
Pooches like Prada, who was getting a new-do for the new year, helped to account for a 12% sales boost this season.
That's exceeding expectations for the nearly five-year-old business.
The "Shop Local" philosophy is reaching customers.
Camp McClellan Cellars is popping the cork on a successful holiday season, too.
"Oh my goodness," said owner Julie Keehn. "It's easily 25% of our year."
Small Business Saturday is a big reason for the uptick.
Sponsored nationally by American Express, that's when customers were supporting their neighbors in the village during Thanksgiving weekend.
"I think the customers realize that if you support local businesses, you support local jobs," Keehn said. "It's better for the economy."
While the holiday shopping season is crucial for small businesses, it's also sending a positive message for year-round sales.
That's the case at Freddy's Fritters. Store-made treats and special attention really connects with customers.
"People want to spend money on things that are made in America and purchased in America," Grady said. "It makes a huge difference for us."
Teamwork in the East Village also boosted holiday sales.
"We did a group effort, and the results we got from that were much greater," Keehn said.
Store owners also credit lower gas prices for stimulating spending this season.
"It's only going to get better," Grady concluded.
For these stores, it's a small business success story.