We miss seeing each other. We miss our work routines and our social lives. We miss the kids going to school! And we miss all of the small business owners that make our communities a community.
How do we thank and support all of the small businesses that are temporarily closed but are the cornerstone of our communities? You know, the ones who donate to the kids fun fair at school year after year, or sponsor a sports team, or support worthy causes? The ones that we can count on when we need a neighbourhood walk and a special gift or treat?
We can continue to support them from afar. Here are a few of our favourite local shops that have come up with some creative ways for us to safely continue to shop locally and support them, like they’ve supported us.
The Beau & Bauble has launched a webstore with free neighbourhood delivery. If you need a birthday gift or card, a puzzle or game to pass some time or something shiny for yourself, she literally has something for everyone in the family. Kate also has Gift Certificates for both stores so you can shop now and “indulge later”.
Flowers and plants are always a pick me up. Lauren from Wildhood has worked hard to get her website up and running over the past weeks. I bought a gift card and can’t wait to spend it when the store is full of flowers again.
Coal Miner’s Daughter is a favourite stop in the Junction and Roncy. They are offering Gift Cards online and a selection of their usual line up. Use the code SHIPFREE for free shipping across Canada.
Pretty Clean Shop is open online and is offering free local delivery. We did love the smell of her shop, so miss that for sure, but at least we can get a head start on our spring cleaning with the extra time on our hands!
We all need to keep busy and if you’re a reader Type is doing contactless curbside pickup and west end delivery! You can call 416-761-9973 to place your order.
When this all over, we are going to look to reconnect with friends and family. There is no place I’d rather do that than Famous Last Words. I may even FINALLY take that cocktail course I’ve been talking about.
Deb works tirelessly to bring unique and special gifts to her shop Simply Beautiful. She is offering local porch drop offs and is working on getting her website up for online orders.
Scout has a fantasitc online selection. If you need a gift to lift the spirits of a friend or family member, there are lots of great options. They are offering free shipping on orders over $40 with the code SCOUTLOVE.
If you need a break from homeschooling and some fun with the kids, Tere at Scooter Girl Toys has your back. She is still working out the best/safest way to get goodies to people, but if you give her a call between 11-2 or drop an email and she’ll take care of you.
When we look back at this time, we want to be proud of how our communities stood together and supported each other during all this uncertainty. So continue to shop local if you can find a safe way to do so. Check back on the blog soon, we’ll take a look at organizations and charities that also need our support.
Stay together….but apart.
