One of the best ways to support the Pittsburgh community is to spend your money locally.   For every $100 spent in locally owned independent shops, $68 returns to the local community! For more information and statistics about the benefits of spending money locally check out the 3/50 Project.

Since it is Thanksgiving week and this Saturday is Small Business Saturday – more on that below.  I wanted to write about some of the Pittsburgh businesses that help me get things done.  Listed in no particular order – here are a few of the businesses that I use on a regular basis to keep things running…

Cars and Auto-body Work – Wildwood Collision

This family owned shop is located on Rt. 8, just near the turnpike entrance in Hampton.  Wildwood Collision is an autobody shop and they sell used cars.  I have bought my car from them and they have been fixing things for me for years.  I am completely confident that they have never overcharged me for anything.  And the Dunbars are super nice folks who have kindly answered many MANY many of my questions.

Computers and Technology – Kevin’s Computer and Photo

This is the only place I will go for computer help.  Kevin is 1000 times better than Geek Squad.  He is honest and helpful.  His rates are reasonable and he wont sell you on services you don’t need.  He offers computer repair and he is also a computer dealer.  If you are looking to buy a new computer and not sure what to get – call Kevin – he will help you get exactly what you need.

Haircuts – Emily Askin Hair and Makeup

Emily is a friend of mine who moved back to Pittsburgh last year.  She is in the process of opening a salon but she is available to do haircuts.  She is also excellent at hair and makeup for weddings and special events.  She does work for television and photo shoots and know how to make anyone look amazing on camera.  Follow her facebook page here and if you would like to contact her about a hair cut drop me an email info-at-IheartPGH.com and I will introduce you.

Accounting – Wilke & Associates

Over the past few years, I have had various jobs and worked as a full time employee, an independent contractor and been a partner in a business.  Things get a little complicated when you move beyond just W-2 and 1099 statements.  Thankfully the folks at Wilke and Associates have helped me to sort everything out and finish my taxes in a timely fashion.  They also kindly answer all of my sometimes crazy questions – “can I deduct parking tickets as a business expense?”

Small Business Saturday

I believe this was started by American Express last year – they declared the Saturday after Thanksgiving as Small Business Saturday – a day to support local independent businesses on the busiest shopping weekends of the year.

Over 2.5 Million people have already signed the Facebook pledge to shop small on Saturday, Novemeber 26.  You can read more about the campaign at SmallBusinessSaturday.com

American Express Cardholders – Spend $25, Get a $25 Credit

If you are an American Express card holder -make sure to register your card here.  If you spend $25 at a small business on November 26, 2011 – you will receive a $25 credit on your statement.