I hope you’re staying safe and well, and I’m looking forward to when we can return to our places of work, get our hair cut, nails done, and get back to all those services and shops that are part of regular routines.
 
Part of the normal routine this time of year is shopping for the seasonal celebrations, like Mother’s Day and graduations.
 
But, shopping from our favorite stores doesn’t have to stop.
 
This podcast is dedicated to all the small businesses who’ve been doing what they can to serve their customers in spite of “closed doors” and customers sheltered in place.
 
It’s been inspiring to hear and read stories, like farmers finding ways to sell their produce, meat and eggs
 
And jewelry stores and shop owners complying with CDC recommended safeguards by offering curbside pickup, shipping, and even deliveries directly to customers, like Beauty Lounge has been doing in Summit, New Jersey.
 
I know it’s easy to swing by Target or Walmart and pick up what we need, but in this time, small businesses need our support.
 
Big box stores do carry jewelry, but do they offer in-store repairs, or custom services?
 
Most small jewelry businesses do.
 
There are special occasions and celebrations to honor.
While jewelry makes a lasting gift to commemorate them, this may not be the best timing to make a significant purchase, but there are reasonably priced options, and also, repairing or refurbishing heirloom and broken pieces are usually affordable options.
 
My point with this podcast is,  when you can, shop and support small business now and always.
 
 
 
Mother’s Day Poem Sharing Support for Small Business and Indie Jewelry Designers
 
 
 
“Days before Mother’s Day, across the land, moms are busy with work at hand.
Many at home, others away, moms need a break on the 10th of May.
A jewel or a trinket in just the right measure, reminds every mom she’s a rare treasure.
 
Avoid the crowds, but leave us six feet, small businesses make shopping fun and neat.
Online, curbside, delivery or in person - shop small, buy local, mountains to coastal.
Small business is open with wonderful ways to celebrate Mom on the 10th of May!”
Brenna Pakes
 
Designers and stores mentioned in this episode:
 
Designers and Small Indie Jewelers:
 
Petite Baleine Jewelry (Pam Waill)
Karin Jacobson
MINTON (assisting Direct Relief)
Emily Kuvin Jewelry
CRASH Jewelry
Mary van der Aa (assisting - Puppy Love all proceeds going to Best Friends Animal Society)
Joyce Morton (Misa & Such face masks)
Stores and Boutiques:
 
Beauty Lounge, Summit, NJ
 
Robert Goodman Jewelers
Zionsville, IN