Social media savvy

Local small business owners are getting savvy with social media to speak directly to their customers.

With online shopping expected to grow close to 40 million by 2015, retailers are capitalizing on social networks' abilities to drive sales. They do this by building social media networks to market their products, share event information and engage audiences they might not normally reach.

In a survey conducted by Forbes, 78 percent of 12,000 U.S. consumers said companies' social media posts affect their purchases. According to addshoppers.com, the social "share" of an online product will produce an average of $2.04 in direct revenue.

With data like this, it's no wonder Cape Girardeau's trendy boutiques are posting and sharing what's new in their shops more than ever. Find out what's in store for you on these shops' social media pages:

Jeweler Claire Bruce of Sloan + Themis uses Facebook and Twitter to get the word out about upcoming events, such as her two-year anniversary sale from May 1 to 3. There will be online and in-store deals. Follow Sloan + Themis to find out more.

Jeweler Claire Bruce of Sloan + Themis uses Facebook and Twitter to get the word out about upcoming events. (Submitted photo)

Philanthropy of Cape Girardeau does more than promote beautiful garments on its Facebook page. The store also uses Facebook as an outlet to promote its prayer wall, which is open to the public, whether buying customers or not. The outpour of community support is astounding.

The antique market is also thriving on social media. Paula Haas of Somewhere in Time Antiques has many followers, and she boasts about her "20 percent off everything green for the entire month" on three networks: Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Look for @108Mainantiques to start taking advantage of her monthly themed deals.

Looking for a one-of-a-kind outfit for your little one or for a new addition to the family? Privately owned children's boutique Hansel & Gretel showcases new merchandise on Facebook. If you can get past the overload of cuteness, they have some great finds that are both high-quality and unique.

Are you following a local designer or boutique in the area that we should know or post about? Let us know at buytheriversemo@gmail.com!

Sheila McKinley is an independent fashion consultant working exclusively with luxury women's golf wear line Ladyb New York. After living in New York City for the better of 10 years, she has come back home to Missouri to do one of the things he does best: talk fashion. Check out her Buy the River blog at semissourian.com/flourish.