Well, it's been an overwhelming time, hasn't it?
The conditions of COVID-19 have been changing so rapidly and so much feels uncertain and beyond our control.
Yet, there's also been so many things that are positive and uplifting - strangers helping each other, offering resources and assistance for those in needs, and showing their support for their fellow neighbours and community.
In my business, I work with a wide range of brick and mortar shops, and unfortunately almost all of the stores I work with have had to close indefinitely, in order to keep their communities as safe as possible. This is a tough situation as the majority of their revenue comes from in-person sales. However, many of the shops do offer online shopping options, and I wanted to share them with you in case you’d like to support them during this challenging time.
Please know that your purchasing decisions greatly impact our community and it makes a HUGE difference. I hope their products and services will bring a little more joy and positivity to your everyday life, which is so needed right now!
Here’s a look at some of our awesome retail partners:
Soirette
Vancouver, BC, Canada
Delicious cakes, desserts and Parisian macarons - I guarantee you’ll fall for their sweet treats!
During this time, the pastry shop is closed to the public, but the team will still be baking and there are several ways for you to still enjoy Soirette’s cakes. Soirette currently offers delivery and curbside pickup. Please place orders online, over the phone at 604-558-3308, or by email at: hello@soirette.com.
Bird on a wire creations
Vancouver, BC, Canada
Representing 240+ local local artists, Bird on a Wire features a huge range of gift ideas, including greeting cards, accessories, candles, home decor, and Vancouver-themed art.
While their two locations are closed, you can still shop online, and free local pickups are available at the Main St. location on Tuesdays and Thursdays, from 2-4pm.
GIVING GIFTS
Vancouver, BC, Canada
Supporting 100+ local artists, you’ll find a huge range of gift ideas from natural body care, home decor, stationery and greeting cards.
Currently offering free shipping in Metro Vancouver on orders over $65, and free shipping throughout Canada/USA on orders over $100.
the curated shop
Edmonton & Calgary, Alberta, Canada
The Curated Shop features over 70+ handmade and local makers, with a consistently rotating group of new vendors.
You’ll still be able to shop from their wide range of accessories, art prints, ceramics, clothing, home decor, jewelry and greeting cards online.
ECOTIQUE
Toronto, Ontario, Canada
A sustainable living boutique, featuring products that are carefully curated to ensure they’re made in an environmentally and socially responsible manner.
You’ll find reusable bags, bottles and food containers, toxin-free body and home care products, locally-crafted giftware and more.
makerhouse
Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
Fostering a network of local makers, Makerhouse supports 100+ makers across Canada.
You’ll spot a range of fun products and gift ideas, from homewares, bath and body items, apparel, greetings cards, and more. 200+ items are now on sale, and you’ll get free shipping on orders $99+.
concession road mercantile
Alliston, Ontario, Canada
A modern general store featuring a thoughtfully curated collection of unique gifts, decor, apparel and home goods from over 150 vendors.
Currently offering $10 flat-rate shipping acorss Canada and free local delivery.
Portage Bay Goods
Seattle, Washington, USA
Known as “The Gift Shop for the Thoughtful Procrastinator”, perfect for gift givers with a sense of humour.
Featuring an eclectic selection of cards and gifts alongside items lovingly crafted by local artists.
It is important to note that everyone's circumstances are different and if you are not able to show financial support for small businesses, I completely understand. If you’d like, you can still show your support by sharing this blog post with friends or family, or you can post about your favourite small businesses on Facebook and Instagram.
Be kind, be patient, and don’t forget to share a little positivity with others to get through this time.
Stay safe, stay healthy, and as always, stay quirky!