Small business owners in Door and Kewaunee counties say the holiday shopping opening weekend sets the pace for the rest of the season.  While larger box retailers offer discounts in their stores and online, smaller retailers in areas like Sturgeon Bay's Third Avenue business district counter with more personal service from staff and unique gifts.  Liz Welter, co-owner of Novel Bay Booksellers, says opening weekend helps her business plan for the remainder of the holiday shopping season and helps the community at large.

Welter says she sees many first time customers during the holidays return during the rest of the year to shop or meet up with friends they've made while shopping.  $$