How Can You Support Local Small Businesses?
Story: Rachael Havens
Your local businesses are doing their best to protect themselves, and provide for all of us. Now, it’s our turn to show up for them. We’re being asked to keep a social distance from each other, but that doesn’t mean we can’t join together in solidarity to support our local small businesses.
Charlene Crowhurst, owner of Pressed Juicery in downtown Collingwood, says “it’s a beautiful feeling” when the communities rally to support their own. She emphasizes her gratitude to everyone who comes into her business, and affirms her hope that a period of rejuvenation is going to follow.
Wondering how you can help in the meantime? Check out a few simple ideas below.
The OUR HOMES Team
Shop Local (+ Online)
If you’re in a position to do so, shop! It might feel strange to be either a seller or a consumer right now, but it’s key to keeping small businesses open. If we continue to shop local businesses will remain open, and that means they can afford to keep supporting their employees, themselves, and their community.
Many stores are moving temporarily online or ramping up existing online shops. Some of them are even offering free local delivery. Designers are offering video consults. This means you can support local from the comfort (and security) of your own home. Check out the websites and social media profiles of your local businesses for updates on their plans to move forward and their own suggestions of how you can support them.
Josh Hollander, Hollander Landscaping
Strike a Balance
Don’t forget, trades are still hard at work as long as it is safe to do so. Showrooms and galleries are open by appointment to keep crowds down. Stores are open with limited hours, strict cleaning protocols, and set capacities. If you are in good health, you can be there to support them while keeping a safe distance.
Business owners are striking a crucial balance between mitigating health risks and keeping afloat, and we can all do our part to buoy them.
Buy Gift Cards
You may have seen this tip making the rounds as a method of keeping businesses going right now – it makes so much sense. It’s a way to say “I have faith you will get through this, and I’ll see you then.”
Even better? You can often order these gift cards without leaving the house, whether online or by phone.
At Home Interiors
Sing Their Praises
If you aren’t in a position to provide financial support, or perhaps you’re even grappling with your own business, there are so many other ways to help.
Giving a shout-out to small and local businesses on social media is a great start. Spreading the word may help their account or website reach a friend who has the means to support them right now.
Left with more free time than usual? Take a few minutes to leave a good review online. Your kind words mean everything to business owners, whether they serve to refer business now or in the future, or they simply bolster their spirits.
All of this to say, small business owners – WE SEE YOU! We’re here for you! Have another idea of how we can support you? Let us know. We’re going to do everything we can to help.
Curious to see a list of homes-related businesses in your region? Check them out here.
