Many of Greenbrier County’s small businesses, as well as those throughout the state and the nation, face a daily struggle to stay afloat. Drumming up support and ensuring that their favorite stores and merchants survive in a sometimes stagnant economy, a group of local citizens dreamed of a means to lend a helping hand. Taking a cue from urban population centers, such as Cleveland, OH and Buffalo, NY, a local cash mob was formed.

A social gathering, the cash mob was inspired by its very popular and dynamic long lost cousin, the flash mob. Assembling in often large groups, the flash mob spontaneously perform pre-rehearsed acts, such as dance and poetry, in a place for a short time and disperse thereafter.

When we each do a little, we all do a lot.

The cash mob is also planned in advance, and patrons are asked to spend $20 at a chosen store. The mob allows a chance to strengthen upon long-term relationships between the consumer and the merchant, in addition to providing like-minded patrons an environment to meet one another and form new bonds.

The first cash mob in the area occurred at Honnahlee Toy Store in downtown Lewisburg in late summer 2012. A reported success, the event saw increased foot traffic for the merchant and comradery among shoppers.

The next local cash mob is scheduled for Sassy on Saturday, November 10th. Located in the Jefferson Square Plaza behind Applebee’s, Sassy specializes in women’s clothing, handbags, and accessories. The store will be open from 10am-7pm, with the cash mob festivities coming to full swing between 2pm-5pm. Food and refreshments will be on hand during this time, with Watt’s Roost Vineyards providing delicious wine samplings for the event. For more information on Sassy’s cash mob, please contact Mariann Hefner at 304-645-4343 or visit facebook.com/sassyboutiquefashion.

-Craig Miller