How to help small businesses during COVID-19

What a strange time this is!

We've never experienced anything quite like this COVID-19 pandemic in our history. Yes, it's unsettling, but I've been so inspired by the many actions that ordinary people are taking to protect, heal, inspire, and make us laugh. (OK, the creativity of some of these social media posts is so impressive!)

It's a scary time to be self-employed. I know that our world and economy will be back strong again, but the near future is uncertain and I am just one of many small business owners who are unsure of the path forward. 

Thank you from the bottom of my heart to all of you who participated in my Facebook Sale. As it always is, it was a BLAST! I absolutely loved connecting with you and I'm already looking forward to the next sale. Through your purchases, you are supporting my business and the economy in general.

So many small businesses are closed (or limited in what they can offer). These businesses are all important components of our economy. 

So what can we do?

I'd like to offer some ways that we can support small business, many of which require no money at all.

• Purchase gift cards. Many small businesses may have their doors closed, but you can still order gift cards online. Use them later or give them to someone who needs a reminder that someone is thinking of them. Click here to get an LJ Artisan Designs gift card to brighten someone's day. 
• Order from local restaurants. Restaurants are especially suffering right now. So many of them are going the extra mile to get delicious food brought right to your car or delivered to your doorstep.
• Follow on social media, "like" and share their posts. You may not realize just how important your "likes", comments, and shares are. They tell Facebook that the business is appreciated and should be shared with others. It just takes a moment, but can really help a small business. Even better, give your favorite small businesses a shout-out on social media and tag them! (I'd love to connect with you on Facebook and Instagram!)
• Make an online purchase. Many brick and mortar businesses also have websites or are selling via Facebook or Instagram. 
• Leave a positive review or give a testimonial. These are so very important, especially when people haven't actually met the owner of the business. It is so reassuring to know that others have had positive experiences with a business. 

For those of you who live locally, I'd like to share with you a few of my favorite local small businesses who have been greatly impacted, but who are working so hard to bring you their talent and goods: 

• Salon LaPage - Ladies, when this quarantine is over, what is the first thing we're going to do? Get the roots covered, right?! Daphne and the amazing stylists at Salon LaPage will be ready for you! Click here to find out more about them and to order gift cards.
• Sweetwaters Coffee & Tea - I hesitate to say this... I'm not a coffee drinker. (Are you still with me or have you banished me from your inbox because of my blasphemy?!) I do love tea though and they have an awesome selection (and my husband, who is a serious coffee drinker is a big fan). Even better, they have a brownie that is DANGEROUS in the best possible way! They are still offering carry out and curbside delivery. Find out more about them and order gift cards here. 
• Denton Trading Company - Boutiques have been hit hard! Luckily, you can still get your favorite unique and interesting items from this wonderful boutique. Need a birthday gift or a Thinking of You gift? Just go to their Facebook or Instagram pages and order right from there. So easy!
• Salted Sanctuary Soap - You will love this small batch artisan soap and skin care company! (Seriously, the Lavender Lulu body scrub is awesome!) You can order products or gift cards here. 
• Mulberry St. Cantina - So, you know I love a good cocktail and Mulberry has some of the best Margaritas in Denton. They are making their signature margarita mix available to you along with cool t-shirts and gift cards. You can get all of this on their Facebook page. 
• Mainstream Boutique - You've heard me talk about this great boutique in Flower Mound! Even though their doors are closed, you can still get all of their wonderful clothing, shoes and accessories by going to their Facebook page. Look through their posts, let them know what you want, have it sent right to you -doesn't get much easier than that!
• Hoochies Seafood - This Louisiana girl is picky about her cajun food 😏but I give my stamp of approval on this one. Hoochies has awesome fresh seafood available for carryout. (You've got to try the Mexican Shrimp Cocktail!) Order food or gift cards here. 

When the economy takes a hit, nonprofit organizations take an even bigger hit. If you are able, please make sure you're financially supporting your favorite nonprofit organization. They need your help!

I'm so proud to help Up Ministry during the month of April! They serve at-risk kids in our community with needed items, supplies and support. They are truly making an impact! (Stay tuned - Up Ministry will be hosting a fun virtual LJ Artisan Designs trunk show this month - including free giveaways...)

We can rally together to get through this. Join me in supporting small business!

All My Best,

Leah