Ocean County small business | blog.firstffcu.com

The holiday season is now in full swing and while the rush to find gifts, plan meals, and celebrate can be overwhelming – it’s also the perfect time to make your spending count locally. Supporting small, independent businesses helps strengthen our communities, boosts local economies, and ensures your dollars go further – often staying in the neighborhood instead of to distant corporations.

Here are some meaningful, practical ways to show support for small businesses this holiday season.

1. Buy Gift Cards from Local Shops, Restaurants, or Service Based Businesses

Gift cards are a win-win during the holidays. When you buy a gift card from a small retailer or local restaurant:

You give someone a flexible gift that’s close to home.
You help that business with immediate cash flow, which matters during the busy holiday season.
You may even encourage repeat business – the recipient may return later and discover more products or services they love.

Whether it’s for a cozy café, boutique clothing, a neighborhood bookstore, or the local spa – gift cards help our small businesses stay afloat and grow.

2. Do Your Holiday Shopping Locally, in Person or Online

Skip the big box store crowd or massive online retailers for at least part of your holiday shopping. Instead, visit neighborhood shops, boutiques, and artisans — or check out their small-business e-commerce websites.

Many small businesses offer online ordering, local delivery, or curb-side pickup – making holiday shopping from home or on a schedule much easier. Buying from them helps keep money circulating locally – sustaining jobs, community services, and the unique character of your hometown.

3. When Ordering Holiday Meals or Treats, Opt for Local Eateries

The holidays often mean busy schedules, long workdays, or late-night prep – which can make fast food or big-chain takeout tempting. This year, consider ordering from a local restaurant or bakery instead. By doing so, you:

Support local workers and business owners when many smaller eateries depend heavily on holiday revenue.
Help maintain the local food culture, keeping unique tastes and homegrown menus alive in your neighborhood.
Often get fresh, more personalized meals – and maybe even help someone feel appreciated by ordering from a small, caring team.

4. Write Positive Reviews for the Local Businesses You Use

If you’ve had a good experience, whether it’s a great gift shop find, friendly service at a café, or delicious carry-out – take a minute to leave a public review.

Positive reviews help small businesses build visibility, trust, and a broader customer base, especially during the holidays when many people search online for gifts, food, or services. A kind review is a low effort but high-impact way to support your community’s businesses.

5. Spread the Word

Word-of-mouth and social sharing remain among the most powerful ways to support small businesses.

Share your favorite shops or restaurants with friends and family.
Recommend local businesses when someone asks for gift ideas.
On social media or within community groups, highlight small businesses you love.

Each share raises awareness and may bring new customers to those businesses.

6. Plan Ahead and Shop Early

Small businesses can get overwhelmed during peak holiday demand. By shopping early, you:

Help avoid stock shortages or long lead times.
Ease stress for small shop owners so they can better manage orders, staffing, and customer service.
Give yourself more gift giving flexibility, and allow local businesses to deliver better service.

The Impact of Shopping Small

Local businesses are more likely to keep profits in the community, supporting neighborhood jobs, schools, and services.
Each holiday purchase at a small shop helps independent businesses compete during a season often dominated by big box retailers.
Shopping small helps preserve the unique character and culture of neighborhoods, making towns more vibrant, personal, and community-oriented.

As we head into Small Business Saturday (November 29, 2025), choosing to shop local is a small decision that can make a big difference.

Make This Season a Community Win

Whether you’re buying gifts, ordering takeout, or doing your regular errands – consider making local businesses part of your plan this holiday season. A small shift in where you spend can help keep jobs, culture, and community thriving.

At First Financial, we believe supporting small businesses is one of the best ways to fuel shared prosperity. Check out some of our local business members this Small Business Saturday and throughout the season. Happy Holidays and don’t forget to shop local!

Starting your own business is an exciting and rewarding endeavor. It allows you to pursue your passion, be your own boss, and create opportunities for yourself and others. However, launching a successful business requires careful planning, financial management, and a solid understanding of resources that can support your entrepreneurial journey. Here, we’ll provide you with valuable tips and insights on starting your own business in New Jersey, along with essential financial advice.

Develop a comprehensive business plan

A well-structured business plan is the foundation for any successful venture. It outlines your business goals, target market, marketing strategy, financial projections, and more. Consider seeking guidance from our business experts who can provide valuable insights and help you create a solid plan.

Manage your finances effectively

Financial management is crucial to the success of your business. Here are some key tips to consider:

Separate personal and business finances: Opening a business account with us will help you track your business expenses and income separately, ensuring accurate financial reporting and easier tax filing.
Create a budget: Establish a detailed budget that covers all your business expenses, such as rent, utilities, inventory, marketing, and employee salaries. Stick to this budget as closely as possible to avoid overspending.
Monitor cash flow: Keep a close eye on your cash flow by tracking your incoming and outgoing funds. Proper cash flow management will help you identify potential issues and make necessary adjustments to ensure your business remains financially stable.
Plan for emergencies: Set aside an emergency fund to cover unexpected expenses or for any periods of reduced income. We can help you establish a business savings account or provide access to lines of credit for added financial security.

Leverage financial products for businesses

At First Financial, we offer a range of products and services tailored to meet the needs of small business owners. Here are a few that might benefit you:

Business loans: Whether you need funds to start your business or finance an expansion, we offer business loan options to help you build or expand your business.
Merchant services: We can provide you with the tools and resources to accept credit and debit card payments from your customers, making transactions easier and more convenient.
Business credit cards: At First Financial, we offer a VISA Business Cash Plus Credit Card, which offers perks like 1.5% cash back, a 10-day grace period, and no annual or foreign transaction fees.*
Financial education and support: The team at First Financial offers workshops, virtual seminars, and one-on-one consultations to help you improve your financial literacy, develop your business skills, and navigate the challenges of entrepreneurship.

Network and seek mentorship

Building a strong network of like-minded entrepreneurs and seeking mentorship from experienced business professionals can provide invaluable guidance and support. Check with local organizations like Ocean County Business Association and Monmouth Networking Exchange to see what events and resources are available. Another great resource for business owners in Monmouth County, NJ is Score of Monmouth County. Be sure to also check out other local networking organizations in your area such as LeTip, BNI, and chambers of commerce.

Starting your own business requires careful planning, financial management, and leveraging the resources available to you. By following these tips and taking advantage of the financial products and support, you can set a solid foundation for your entrepreneurial journey. Remember, the team at First Financial is not just a financial institution – but a trusted partner invested in your success.

Take the leap, pursue your dreams, and let us be your trusted companion as you embark on your next journey. Call us at 732.312.1500, email business@firstffcu.com or stop into your local branch to get started.

*This APR of 18% is for purchases, balance transfers, and cash advances and will vary with the market based on the Prime Rate. Subject to credit approval. Rates quoted assume excellent borrower credit history. Your actual APR may vary based on your state of residence, approved loan amount, applicable discounts and your credit history. No Annual Fees. Other fees that apply: Balance Transfer and Cash Advance Fees of 3% or $10, whichever is greater; Late Payment Fee of $35, $10 Card Replacement Fee, and Returned Payment Fee of $35. A First Financial membership is required to obtain a Visa® Business Cash Plus Credit Card and is available to anyone who lives, works, worships, volunteers, or attends school in Monmouth or Ocean Counties. A $5 deposit in a base savings account is required for credit union membership prior to opening any other account/loan. Your First Financial Visa® Business Cash Plus Card will earn cash back based on your eligible purchase transactions. The cash back will be applied to your current credit card balance on a quarterly basis and be shown cumulatively on your billing statement. Unless you are participating in a limited time promotional offer, you will earn 1.5% cash back based on eligible purchases each quarter. No late fee will be charged if payment is received within 10 days from the payment due date.