How to Support Temporarily Closed Businesses
Miss shopping in downtown Duncan? On March 21 2020, provincial health authorities ordered all personal services businesses closed until May 30 due to Covid 19. Many retailers and restaurants temporarily closed too. Yet we can still show love for our favourite downtown spas, salons, and tattoo parlors during this time, just as we support other local businesses - with gift cards, ordering delivery, and writing positive reviews.
Francine Lavallee-Murray, owner of The Alley Cat, has a message for businesses that, like the Alley Cat, have been forced to close due to new regulations during the Covid 19 crisis.
"I've been working in downtown Duncan for 35 years and it is awesome and vibrant. There have been lots of times over the years when people thought this town was dying, but it didn't then and it won't now," she encourages.
In the spirit of resilience, many business owners like Francine have taken on renovation projects and/or found new ways to serve customers under the circumstances.
If you want to show support for your favourite local businesses' efforts to operate on some level, send a message and find out how you can keep benefitting from their services, just like you do for retailers selling products online and restaurants offering takeout.
Here are some ideas!
Miss the Ginger Room?
The salon may not be able to provide haircuts, colouring and esthetician services right now, but they are selling Aveda product, including root spray to cover grey hairs. Get yourself a stress-fix bath salt and body cream to get through these tough times! Product can be delivered or picked up via private appointment at customer convenience - just reach out at 250-710-0665.
Wondering what is happening with Matisse Day Spa?
The spa is offering gift cards for some great Mother's Day packages right now, from Mommy & Me mani pedis to a Goddess Retreat that includes a facial and a massage!
If you are looking for a good price on home hair care, The Loft is offering sales on top-selling products like Aria mini dryers - check their Facebook page for the latest. Likewise, Eclipse Salon is also selling Loma hair products and gift cards!
Finally, if you are in need of a wax but can't visit Sei Bella, send them a message via social media and you can get your hands on some Roll On wax or Ingrown Be-Gone.
Not all businesses can operate in some way at this time, but we can still show how much we miss them by following their social media and writing positive reviews.
If you want to know how your favourite barbers are doing at Victory Barber & Brand North, visit the shop's Facebook page and find out.
Get inspired by looking at the beautiful nail art Ah Zenya's Diane is practising at home!
You can even get online hair advice from Studio One Professionals!
However you go about it, making an effort to buy and otherwise support local business is a direct investment into your community and economy.
"I think generally people like to support local here," says Ruth Spon, owner of Station Street Tattoo Company, which is still selling gift cards, hats and art.
Show your love for your community today by looking up your favourite local salon or shop - you might be surprised by the exciting opportunities on the table.