If Swan City is known for anything, we’re probably best known for our love and support of small businesses.

Over the past year and a half, we’ve had the privilege and honor of conversing with you on this topic multiple times – from getting deep into our feelings about which businesses we’d cry over if closed to celebrating the oldest staples in our community to shouting out the movers, shakers, and – of course – the makers.

While many of us may be currently practicing safe social distancing, we know this can have an impact on our local economy and our mom + pop shops.

We recently asked you on Facebook + Instagram some of the ways we could continue to show our support locally during the Coronavirus (COVID-19) and here’s what some of you had to say. ⬇️

“As a Lakeland resident (and author) my suggestion is to buy books!” – @thats_tirrellble
“If inventory is available to purchase over the phone, do so! Small businesses would likely be totally fine holding items if they’ve already been paid for. Keep watch on social media outlets or online stores for such items.” – Reader Jessi Z.
“I’ve got all my products available online with free shipping so you don’t have to go out and about!” – @twentysevenlkld
“Other local businesses that you may not at first consider are your performers// artists are undergoing mass cancellations of tours and concerts right now// in the digital age your favorite bands+solo artists make next to nothing on the streaming we're all so used to using every day// it's less than pennies per stream (anywhere from $0.006 to $0.0084 cents per stream on average for Spotify for the curious)” – @vanplating
“Curbside pickup for takeout orders of food or products.” – Reader Terri C.

Do you know of other ways we can support small business owners and employees? Or restaurants that are prioritizing health with special measures? Let us know in the engagement module below.

Question

– LALtoday team (Abby + Kaylee)