LITTLE ROCK, AR — Eggshells Kitchen Company is hoping for a big profit for the 2012 holiday shopping season. Owner Heather Smith says Small Business Saturday is helping her business reach its goal.

“We think of it as a way to celebrate what we try to accomplish year round, which is keeping people shopping local and supporting their communities and their neighborhoods,” said Smith.

Virginia Ivanoff passed through from Harrisburg, Pennsylvania Saturday and says there are two reasons why she is shopping local today.

“I figured I could buy some Christmas gifts here that would be a little different,” said Ivanoff.

She also wants to support local and small businesses.

“That’s what built this country. So why not keep them going,” said Ivanoff.

Smith is thankful for shoppers like Ivanoff and says spending trends are changing.

“Not only have we seen an increase in business this time of year. But we have seen an increase in business of people who pay attention to where they spend they money,”said Smith.

Ultimately, Smith says customers shopping local keeps her business open.

“No one wants to see empty storefronts. And this is how we can keep this from happening,” said Smith.

Many merchants also say they incorporated Small Business Saturday into their holiday marketing plans.