5 Reasons to Support Small Businesses & Car Culture — Automotive Photography by Blake Ferguson
- Blake Ferguson
- Jul 25, 2017
- 6 min read
Updated: Jul 29
Date Published: 07/25/2017
Date Edited: 06/06/2025
Another successful adventure, this time through the lens of car photography in its purest form—Grassroots, loud, and unapologetically expressive. From Newmarket to Hamilton quickly morphed into a full-day experience stitched together by the unmistakable scent of petrol, fresh barbecue, and the free-spirited summer air as I lingered about with my Sony A300 camera.
Rolling into town with close friend John Simon in his iconic Acura Integra and alongside Behn in his modified 2000 Volkswagen Jetta MK4 VR6, the journey itself set the tone—camaraderie, shared hype, and that familiar low rumble under the hood. To our surprise, cousin Allan Heath—previously mentioned during the TURN6 event—made a grand, comedic entrance in his well-worn Honda CRV, living proof that it is not about the paint job but the passion.
This collective car gathering came together by a passionate small business specializing in custom boutique items and screen printing. Located in such a small venue, the thrive for automotive photography lasted the entirety of the day. Gatherings like this- it was not only a car show- but an independent initiative rooted in craftsmanship, culture, and connection. Tucked away in the discreet backlot of an industrial complex, the event transformed the space into a vibrant scene that felt both underground and magnetic. The atmosphere was lively, bordering surreal. A live DJ curated the soundtrack, while custom car setups flexed their sound systems and style.
Everything from clean JDM classics to wrapped exotics like the Lamborghini Huracán and a wine-red Bentley GT Coupe popped out. Known local philanthropist and car enthusiast @hapyhipi rolled in with a fleet from his wrapped collection, adding even more energy to the eclectic mix.
While exotics and supercars were in attendance, the culture of stance came heavily routed. Car club @n3xtlevel also pulled up strong, as did reputable names in the modelling scene like Victoria Colton and Cat Solomon—figures that added allure and authenticity to the occasion. A known presence that is yet rare to come across- the Got Ass Girls threw down, which always keeps the events intriguing and lively.
For those wondering who Cat Solomon is- she is a recognized figure in the urban modelling and automotive community, known for bridging creative scenes and building visibility for independent projects. Across her modelling portfolio, she has contributed vital roles as a model among many music videos for independent hip-hop artists in Toronto, Ontario.
As a hobbyist photographer with my Sony A300 camera, I could visualize how Lightroom would help shape these moments into automotive fine art. The sun hit just right as chrome reflected movement, and candid snapshots captured expressions, engines and various aftermarket parts.
This article highlights the incredible display of automotive creativity and the independent spirit that powers events like this. If you have been slacking on supporting small businesses, consider this a reason to rethink your habits. If your support has been solid, feel free to dive straight into the coverage below—either way, this was a day worth documenting.
The Kloey’s Kloset 2017 Experience
During revising these Insights, I could not locate any active links or recent presence for Kloey’s Kloset, the small business behind this incredible event. In 2017, what was a tightly knit car show blossomed into something unforgettable—charged with energy, authenticity, and a Grassroots spirit. That experience left a lasting impact on me, and why, in 2025, I feel compelled to highlight the importance of supporting small businesses. When you find an independent creator, service, or brand that aligns with your interests, invest in them intentionally. It is not vital to only shop at the nearest mom-and-pop store out of obligation—support someone whose passion resonates with yours. When we fuel small businesses, we support commerce—we sustain culture, creativity, and community.
Five Reasons to Support Small Businesses in 2025
Reason #1 — Enhancement of Local Economies
When consumers allocate funds to small businesses, a significant portion of that expenditure remains within the community. This practice supports employment, services, and other local enterprises through a ripple effect, strengthening the local tax base that funds education, infrastructure, and public services.
Reason #2 — Job Creation and Opportunities
Small businesses function as substantial employers, collectively generating more employment than large corporations. They provide opportunities for meaningful engagement, career advancement, and local entrepreneurship, which contribute to reducing unemployment.
Reason #3 — Promotion of Innovation and Diversity
Small enterprises frequently serve as hubs of innovation, generating new ideas, niche products, and services that larger firms may neglect. They contribute unique character to communities and marketplaces, offering consumers more personalized, creative, and diverse options. For example- as discussed through my biographies, when you choose to work with an independent freelance photographer or graphic designer versus a digital agency- there are no guidelines I oblige you to follow other than our own. Furthermore, it is more convenient without the need to play broken telephones.
Reason #4 — Fostering Stronger Communities
Owners of small businesses typically invest in the welfare of their neighbourhoods. They contribute to local events, support charitable causes, and help cultivate vibrant community spaces. Their engagement promotes a sense of connection, trust, and community identity.
Reason #5 — Advancement of Sustainability
Many small businesses prioritize ethical practices, local sourcing, and environmental stewardship more than larger corporations. By supporting these enterprises, consumers can reduce their carbon footprint and encourage a more sustainable economic framework.
The Importance of Small Businesses
Small businesses represent the backbone of resilient economies and thriving communities. They embody creativity, independence, and the human aspect of commerce, fostering innovation, empowering individuals, and influencing local culture in ways that larger enterprises cannot. In 2025, support for small businesses is experiencing a decline due to several interconnected factors driven primarily by economic pressures, a culture of convenience, and evolving consumer behaviours. The following outlines the reasons for this trend:
#1 — Convenience and the Dominance of E-Commerce Giants
Large platforms like Amazon, Walmart, and Shein are setting the standard with their rapid shipping, aggressive pricing, and hassle-free purchasing processes. As consumers increasingly prioritize speed and cost over community values—especially in times of financial strain—small businesses struggle to compete. They cannot match the logistics and pricing strategies of these giants.
#2 — Rising Costs and Inflation
The global economy in 2025 remains plagued by inflation, soaring interest rates, and skyrocketing prices for essential goods. In this challenging landscape, consumers are driven to opt for lower-priced, mass-produced products, often at the expense of local or ethically sourced options. This trend is not just a choice; it reflects the pressure people face daily.
#3 — Algorithmic Influence on Market Visibility
Social media and online platforms heavily skew in favour of sponsored content and the marketing budgets of big brands. As a result, small businesses fade from the limelight. Consumers encounter advertisements from major corporations far more frequently than independent creators or retailers, creating an uneven playing field that undermines fair competition.
#4 — Real Estate Pressures and Gentrification
Across urban areas, small businesses have become displaced from commercial spaces due to exorbitant rental costs and aggressive redevelopment efforts. This trend leads to homogenized shopping districts dominated by chains and franchises, severely restricting the presence and accessibility of local alternatives. It is a situation that threatens the very fabric of community commerce.
#5 — Decline in Consumer Awareness or Fatigue
The shop local movement saw significant momentum during the COVID-19 pandemic, but that urgency has faded alarmingly. Considering the lack of ongoing campaigns or compelling narratives to underscore the importance of supporting small businesses- consumers feel disconnected or indifferent. Moreover, support fatigue has set in, causing individuals to feel overwhelmed and uncertain about the impact of their actions. How we re-spark small businesses, our passion and commitment need rekindling before they become lost for good.
Conclusion
The decline in support for small businesses in 2025 correlates to convenience, economic strain, and digital saturation, overshadowing values-based consumer behaviour. Without systemic support, policy reforms or a cultural shift- small businesses face escalating challenges to survive and prosper in an increasingly corporatized and algorithm-driven marketplace.
Support Small Businesses with Printed Fine-Art by Blake Ferguson
Video Recap of Kloey’s Closet 2017 by CRBN QWN
Browse Blake Ferguson’s Commercial Photography Portfolio.
Browse Blake Ferguson’s Fine-Art Photography Portfolio.
Book Blake Ferguson’s Photography Services.
Consult with Blake Ferguson about your Graphic Design project.
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