They’re right. I’ll bet they work hard every day and are just as ready to leave at 5:00 as the next “working woman.” So I don’t really fault the ladies who were not-so-helpfully dealing with my question. And as a business-owner myself, I understand the difficulties of staffing and keeping hours that make everyone happy.

That said, it drives me absolutely crazy that it’s virtually impossible for me to shop at locally owned businesses without taking time off of work to do it. I believe that’s why the big-box stores do so well – they’re open more hours, and there’s usually one in a location convenient to wherever I am.

If you’d rather shop local, and you’re serious about making a purchase from one of your local vendors, it’s worth asking them if they take appointments. You’d be surprised how many are willing to stay open an extra hour, meet you on a weekend, or handle details over the phone or Internet.

When you do find a vendor who’s willing to provide such service, be respectful of their time. And when they show up to meet you on a Saturday, bring them a cup of coffee and a fresh pastry, or send a bottle of wine to thank them for the extra effort they put into earning your business.

You tell me: Have you worked with a local vendor who went above and beyond to earn your business?