There’s a lot we can learn from the countless small business leaders out there in each of our communities.
From that hot yoga studio that consistently posts insightful and entertaining short videos on Instagram, to the guys who run the Surf Shop at the beach, who stay relevant during the offseason by running a creative holiday campaign, to everyone’s favorite downtown bar that just plain and simple does a good job on social media — small business owners deserve a salute now and again.
So, as a tiny team of marketing professionals that pushes the boundaries for our brand partners big and small, we know hard work when we see it.
That’s why we’re sharing the following not only as a salute to these local business leaders who like to punch above their weight, but also as a learning lesson of sorts for brands in need of a shot in the arm.
Disclaimer: I’m a proud supporter, member, patron, and fan of each one of these establishments. Their ability to market themselves is just one of the reasons why.
Summer sessions surf shop
Go Big or Go Home.
This locally owned surf shop is a must visit during the summer months. But, it’s the pair of brothers and their crew that keep you on the hook even in the offseason with an outstanding social media presence.
For the last few years, Summer Sessions has done a retail-focused advent calendar that puts their products at the center of the holiday season. Whether it’s an impressive deal on sunglasses or 50% off shoes or BOGO beanies, the brand isn’t afraid to tee up a daily campaign for its customers.
And let’s be real, these sorts of things don’t just happen out of thin air. This sort of campaign takes planning and coordination — especially when it involves multiple retail locations.
Nice job, Summer Sessions.
Blaze Yoga & Fitness
Being Consistent Produces Consistently Good Results.
This local yoga studio truly exemplifies the importance of maintaining a consistent drumbeat on social media.
From educational content highlighting muscle groups or movements, to quirky trends that incorporate their incredible cast of instructors — the local brand has made their social media presence the perfect complement to their heated-room workouts and yoga classes.
It’s all consistently good.
And to punctuate the digital experience for their members, the yoga studio even releases a end-of-year recap similar to the Spotify Wrapped experience that shows members its top performance metrics, most attended classes, and more!
Wonderful work 🔥.
@blazeyoganh Just give me some weird exercises to train end range of motion and I’m there. #mobility #functionalfitness #kinstretch ♬ original sound – Blaze Yoga & Fitness
Community Management
Made Simple
Free Community Management Matrix Template
TJ’s Food & Spirits
Mix Your Customers (and Yourself) Into Your Content.
Great menu, great staff, and a fantastic ability to whip up a short video on social media on the reg.
But even better, the staff at TJs makes it a point to incorporate its customer base into the content.
Including your customers in social media content isn’t just nice — it’s powerful.
Featuring real people builds trust, creates authenticity, and turns your audience into advocates. When customers see themselves reflected in your business, engagement goes up, loyalty deepens, and your content feels human instead of promotional.
Cheers, TJs!🍺
Caffé kilim
Showing Your Character Counts.
A popular coffee shop known for a great cup of joe, occasional lines out the door AND a truly engaging presence on social media.
Kudos to the owners and staff of the beloved café for showing their creativity and character in each and every post.
In a highly caffeinated and competitive landscape, making time to show your creative chops is your chance to stand out in a crowded market, showcase your vibe, and make people feel like they know you before they even walk in.
Playful posts, behind-the-scenes glimpses, and unique experiences (like throwing lattes in the owners’ faces) don’t just grab attention — they build a personality your customers love and want to return to, cup after cup.
Killer work, Kilim.☕️
So what’s the lesson?
Big brands often have resources, reach, and recognition — but local business leaders have something just as powerful: authenticity, agility, and a deep connection to their communities.
These businesses show us that success isn’t just about scale — it’s about understanding your audience, taking creative risks, and building relationships that last.
Big or small, any brand can learn from these local leaders: listen closely, act boldly, and never underestimate the power of showing character in everything you do.
Who are we missing?
Send us any other local businesses that deserve a shout out!