That is the million-dollar question every day as we all navigate through the stages of this surreal time in our lives. Who honestly would have thought all this chaos and uncertainty could be happening all at once? Not in my lifetime or in my wildest dreams.
I have held back from writing a blog for so many reasons…mostly I did not know what I could possibly say that would be of any value during the early stages or write something that had not already been said. I was stunned, deer in the headlights, frozen at the moment and scared of the uncertainty. I am going, to be honest, I was like WTF?
I was so pumped for this year…going into year #2…I was going to write a blog back in March to talk about all the amazing small businesses that were going to attend the market at the Aud in Simcoe, ON at the Norfolk County Fairgrounds, May 1st & 2nd. I was so ready for you all to attend! I was going to tell you of the other great venues that I was working on for the summer, and boom COVID came in like a wrecking ball and here we are navigating through the “new norm”.
But during all the uncertainty, I was able to host 2 online markets in support of some amazing small businesses that Ontario has to offer (95 plus small businesses showcased). I had the platform and audiences that were already generated and captivated by the live venues, so why not use it? It made sense and away we went. In the end, I was excited about several reasons; I met new business owners/entrepreneurs, formed some friendships but most of all I was able to still do what I set out at the beginning of my adventure with markets ~ promote emerging businesses who sell antiques, vintage, shabby-chic, farmhouse and handmade goods and artisans. It was not the twist I was looking for to put in my markets, but it worked, and we all adapted to go with the flow. If you go back on Blue Hens Markets Facebook and Instagram accounts, all the posts and lists of businesses showcased are all there still for you to shop. You will not be disappointed at all as businesses post new products daily on their websites or social media accounts. Thank you to all of those who showed your support in some shape, way, or form during those markets.
Moving forward until I will be having markets (fingers-crossed it cannot come soon enough), I will be finalizing a few new things that will be up for purchase. I am quite sure you are going to like these ideas. I stare in “aww” to be honest if I do not say so myself. The thought came from a piece of art I received from Jen Lados, an Artist from Norfolk County. I cherish the piece near and dear to my heart. It is in my office and I get to see it all day long as I work from home currently. Michael Barber, also another Artist from Norfolk County and Founder of Genuine Folker Brand wrapped the ideas altogether and created a design- how Michael usually does, unique and reflective of the business. These ideas again are a way for me to keep supporting small businesses and entrepreneurs from communities across Ontario. This is an adaption year and a growing year for me as I like to call it.
To answer the question, “Are we there yet?” Probably not for a while. Is it hard not being there yet? Absolutely…the journey, anticipation and the unknown get you every time. But truly, in the end, we are all in this together and need to support each other. Small businesses and entrepreneurs are the backbones of our communities in some way shape or form. They truly put the roots and passion in the community. One of the easiest ways to show your support is when you are scrolling through your social media accounts, click, like and share…you never know who is seeing your actions of support. It is that easy!
So as we all navigate through the uncertainties and small businesses adapt through “how to do business”, please be kind and supportive of them and we will all get there together safely.