Businesses offering special deals to attract shoppers

The businesses on Grand Boulevard just south of St. John’s Cathedral are getting together for a street fair and market on Saturday. Grand Boulevard will not be closed during the event, but participating businesses will offer special deals and treats to shoppers.

“We don’t have a formal business association here, we just decided to try and get everyone together,” said Bonnie Peterson, esthetician at Grassroots Wellness Spa and Fitness Studio. “Businesses will have balloons outside and you can start wherever you like. To get the deal, you have to go into the business.”

About 30 businesses are involved in the fair – including Savory, Barks and Beans, Starbucks and Qdoba – and each business has its own special deals of the day.

Grassroots, at 1303 S. Grand Blvd., is offering minifacials and other specials for customers new and old.

At Barks and Beans, a dog and cat grooming place that’s also a cafe, there will be a petting zoo outside and free nail clipping for dogs.

“We also offer half off on do-it-yourself dog wash,” said Kim Brown, one of the owners of Barks and Beans.

The nontraditional pet grooming shop has been open for 10 months at 1314 S. Grand Blvd.

“We also do cats,” said Brown, “and we don’t sedate them like some other places do.”

Savory Restaurant and Lounge is also offering special deals on drinks and food during the market.

“We are just hoping to bring some business to the area,” said Peterson, who organized the fair. “Between all the shops here, there will be lots of good deals, drawings and coupons.”