Dozens of people came out to support local stores for Small Business Saturday.

"It means a lot, not just because they're supporting me and believing in what I do but also supporting our community. I live here, I also shop small. So giving back to the community when I shop small too. It's just a good cycle," says Marissa Schindler, ISSAMARS owner. 

"We're supporting local makers. A lot of what I have here are pieces that are made here in Buffalo, so I'm not only supporting our local makers, I'm creating unique things for people to buy," explains Hayley Janecki, Ro Owner.  

According to the U.S. Small Business Administration, consumers spent nearly $18 billion at independent restaurants and retailers on Small Business Saturday last year. Owners say social media has changed the way businesses operate.

"Instagram has helped a lot. We are able to tag our items, so we can sell right through Instagram," Janecki said. 

Sixty-six of small businesses often have a list of organizations to donate to, according to the U.S. Small Business Administration.