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DENVER — Over the past five years, American Express has offered consumers a $10 to $30 credit for shopping with its card at mom-and-pop stores.

Since awareness of the program has jumped to about 55 percent of shoppers, American Express backed off this year.

Still, small-business owners love the effort and are benefiting from the program just the same.

“We like shopping small because we are helping local artisans and the businesses which sell their products,” said Brenda Wright. “We don’t have big budgets for marketing, so what AMEX did for us is let people know we are open and have wonderful products for the whole family.”

From Cherry Creek North to local shopping districts all over the metro area, Saturday was the day to show them your support — and many did.

“We know if we do well on this Small Biz Saturday, the day or weekend can mean we will be in the be in the black for the year,” said Robin Lohre with Tululah Jones on 17th Avenue.

Oh, and if you forgot to shop small Saturday, you have about one month to get it done.