It seems that just last week we were going on about our normal lives, listening with one ear to the news, but also remaining calm. As our situation in Michigan is changing rapidly from day to day, we at Lansing Mom are committed to continuing to provide you with up-to-date resources. As a small business, we want to help you continue to support our local businesses during this time. We know that by coming together we can support and uplift. If you’re currently social distancing, we’ve got you covered with ideas you can use right from your couch to keep supporting local. If you are still in need of a few items, we’ve got you covered with ideas on how to shop small to support local.
Support Local Businesses
This one seems obvious but maybe you’re not entirely comfortable heading out. If you don’t feel all the way comfortable heading into your favorite store, at this time, there are a multitude of ways you can still shop local. Check your local stores and see if they have an online order option, so you can get it delivered right to your doorstep. If there isn’t a delivery option, see if they are offering curbside pick-up at this time. It will save you having to head in to the store itself and you can still get what you need.
Support Local Grocery Stores
Need to make a grocery run? Consider shopping local. There are so many local markets that would appreciate your business at this time. They most likely aren’t as crowded as your chain stores, and are working to keep stocking up, in order to ensure you have all the essentials.
Follow Guidelines
Small shops all over are setting themselves, and you, up to stay healthy during this time. Be sure you are following their guidelines on cleanliness. The main one being, stay home if you are feeling a little sick! Check your favorite place of business before heading there so that you are up to date on what their procedures are.
Social Media
The easiest way for you to support local is to hit that little heart, give it a thumbs up, and share! You love that business and you’re sad you might not be able to go, so share how much you love them on social media. The word gets out about how great they are, and you can give them a thank you that you may have not already given.
Write a Review
So many businesses rely on Google and Facebook reviews and you can very easily do that from the comfort of your couch. Give your favorite business that five star rating they deserve and a comment of why you love them. It’s a gift that will keep giving beyond what we are experiencing now.
Buy a Gift Card
Buy a gift card to use later. We know the importance of this one and the impact it can have. It means you pledge you’ll be back, and it’s something that could support local business during a very uncertain time. It’s a promise to them and yourself. We love this way of supporting small business.
Donate
At this time, food banks and charities may be feeling overwhelmed and appreciate your support. Check your local food bank or charity to see how you can help. Whether it’s donating food or time.
Local Businesses we Love
We at Lansing Mom are working hard to support our community at this time. We want to thank the businesses that have supported us, as we launched over the last month, by sharing what they are doing in their own stores to keep you all happy and healthy!
Foster Coffee Co.| Procedures have changed on service and reusable items. You can support them by buying a bag of your favorite beans to roast at home. Stay up to date with them here.
Mother and Earth Baby Boutique | Babies and kids still need things whether you are quarantined or not. You can order online and pick up here.
Play East Lansing | Events are limited to private party only but you can always buy a gift certificate for a later date. Check out their site here.
Polka Dots Boutique | Did you know Polka Dots has a full online site? You can still shop your favorites here.
The Barre Code East Lansing | Class sizes are reduced by 50% until further notice. If you’re an auto-pay member, you can use their On Demand platform. Check them out here.
Holiday Salon | Books and magazines have been removed to limit extra touching, they will be using disposable cups, ask you to wash your hands upon arrival, and always stay home if you aren’t feeling well. Stay up to date with them here.
Goldfish Swim School | Currently closed.
You’re all set on how you can support local businesses, and we hope you do! If you want more resources during this time of social distancing, we’ve got you covered. Head here!
