Over the past few weeks, I’ve been focused on supporting local business as they’re going through the roughest of times. With everything still so uncertain, these business owners need our help and support more than ever. But the thing is, we are all struggling a bit. Some of us out of work, some of us unsure about our job security or maybe we’re simply spending more money online shopping because kids are stuck at home & Amazon Prime is coming in clutch.
Whatever your situation, even finding $25 to spend with a local business will go a long way. Last week, I prepaid for a salon service with my hair stylist of 7+ years. She sent a message back to me immediately saying it made her shed tears of joy. It’s the best money I’ve spent in a LONG time.
The unique way I’ve been able to spread my business around the community.
I’m lucky to be a part of a local group called the DSM Hummingbirds. Two amazing women founded the outreach community with the idea of gathering Des Moines advocates and local influencers to “take flight” and spread awareness of local businesses, events or really anything happening in our area. It has truly become a phenomenon around central Iowa and the reach is palpable when we have a campaign in the works.
The minute they released a campaign for this pandemic, I signed up. Our task was pretty simple – each week for four weeks, we chose one category of business to support. So simple, yet so effective.
If you’re like me, once the news began flooding in with business closures, economic downturn and the immediate need to support our favorite small businesses, I felt a little overwhelmed. I didn’t want to start mindlessly buying gift cards or ordering take out while also exploding our grocery budget. We didn’t need the extra stress on our minds or on our bank account. But when the Hummingbirds began our #dsmlocalchallenge with a once-per-week purchase, I felt relieved. Yes. Yes, I can do that. And I was excited to get out there and support my favorite spots.
Here’s how it worked.
Week One | donate to a charity in need (I chose our local food bank)
Week Two | order restaurant take-out at east once
Week Three | purchase from a local boutique online or see if they’re offering curbside pick-up (see where I got the tee I’m wearing!)
Week Four | prepay for a self-care service
And the option is there to repeat it all over again until this crisis is over.
Love my tee? It’s from my favorite Des Moines print shop – The Vinyl Studio. They make more than just Des Moines items. I’m currently eyeing this sweatshirt because, TBH, even though tie-dye is an easy DIY, I’d just rather not.
Stay home. Stay safe.
xoxo. B
First of all, you look great! Love this look from head to toe. Secondly, what an awesome organization that you belong to. We have to support each other where we can right now, and I admire you so much for making a commitment to do so!
Karly
https://www.whatkarlysaid.com
Thank you so much Karly! That means a lot on all fronts 🙂 It has been a super inspiring organization to be a part of. Truly feel lucky to have it here in DSM!