Local shops on the square in need of holiday business boom

BOWLING GREEN, Ky.-Small businesses surrounding Fountain Square Park are hoping to get a holiday boost, after taking a hit during months of construction in downtown Bowling Green.

Businesses on the square offer everything from CBD to classic vinyl records, Rick Raque owns Candle Maker’s on the Square.

“This has been going on for well over a decade. We’ve got really loyal followers, and like all local businesses we need you desperately.” said Raque.

Like many local shops on the square, Candle Maker’s has seen a slump in business recently.

“The construction during the summer. The square is absolutely gorgeous, they’ve done a great job, but over the last six months its been extremely difficult on every vendor down here,” said Raque.

Now that construction is complete a lot of local business owners are hoping they’ll bounce back. Like the owner at Back Down South.

“I know customers have tried their best to get down here, and we are just taking it and running with it. The construction is over, the square looks great. So, instead of just being down on that we’re just trying to be excited for the future,” said Kristen Robinette.

By future she means this weekend, when local shops will be celebrating National Small Business Saturday.

“Small Business Saturday is going to be a big hit. It’s all day long. We’re definitely trying to up the vibe, have fun and just make it more of a party than anything,” said Robinette.

Both Raque and Robinette said they hope to have the community’s support especially this holiday season.

“Come down, shop all of the businesses on the square and see the lovely new park,” said Robinette.

Raque said, “During this holiday season, if you support local down here you’re really helping everybody out.”

Both Candle Maker’s and Back Down South will have discounts and other deals this Saturday.