GIOVANINA VANCHERI
Special to The Leader
With everyone moving toward social distancing and businesses everywhere closing their doors, it can be pretty difficult to support restaurants and stores around your community.
Supporting small businesses is important to me, (it is quite literally the foundation of my blog), but it is especially important in times like this when our communities are struggling.
The downsides? We can’t really leave our houses, and most businesses are closed.
On a positive note, there are still things we can do to support our favorites.
1. Support local
Now more than ever, local brands need our help. Whenever you can, shop local instead of turning to big corporations. If you need groceries, try out any local-based companies or farmers markets that may still be open. If you need to order something, try a local pharmacy or online shop instead of going straight to Amazon. Want to “eat out”? Order from a local restaurant instead of a chain. It will help them out, and you will feel better about where your money is going in the long run.
2. Order takeout
While restaurants are closed for dining, most of them have turned to takeout and delivery options. Plus, lots of them are having specials to encourage takeout. Since you’re probably sick of cooking all of your own meals at this point anyway, why not treat yourself and support your favorite eating places?
3. Buy gift cards
Another great way to support small businesses while social distancing is to buy gift certificates from them. This way, you are still helping them bring money in while they are closed, and you have incentive to go out and support them again once they are reopened. A gift certificate is also a great gift idea for your friends and family members who are celebrating their birthday in quarantine.
4. Buy merch
Store merch is another great way to keep supporting local businesses. Check out their online shops for t-shirts, stickers, keychains and anything else they may have to offer. Not only will you be helping them financially, but you’ll help market them personally when you rock all your new merch.
5. Support the arts
Artists are probably struggling the most during this time, so don’t forget about them. Now that you most likely have some more free time, what better way to occupy your time than with the arts? Celebrities don’t need your help, but local artists do. Stream your favorite local musician on Spotify as much as you can. Look to local artists who may be doing commissions or having sales. Support them on social media. Anything you can do is sure to help.
6. Share your support on social media
If money is tight right now, (trust me, I get it) you can always show your love for your favorite businesses on social media. A little really does go a long way, so if you like them, show it. A simple like, share, follow or shoutout can be the most helpful way to show your support and encourage your friends to try them out as well.
While you’re home focusing on classes or work, don’t forget that your favorite restaurants and shops are probably really struggling.
While this is a difficult situation for everyone, there are still ways to support your favorite businesses.
I don’t know about you, but once this is all over, I know for a fact that I will be going out to all of my favorite restaurants and stores to make up for the lost time.