Don’t Let Small Businesses Fail
The Call to Support Local Business
Our beloved island, with its summer tourist economy, has recently witnessed the closure of beloved businesses that, by all outward appearances, were thriving. As business owners, we often put on a smile, and power through tough times, not stopping to admit the toll it takes on our psyche and our bank accounts.
The announcement of multiple closures within weeks of each other is undeniably disconcerting. It serves as a stark reminder of the challenges and fears small business owners face during the winter months in an economy driven primarily by tourism. Small businesses are the lifeblood of our community, and the success of our local economy hinges on the collective support of local patrons.
It's not easy to express the fear and despair that often accompany the responsibility of keeping our doors open. There have been months when I, too, have gone without paying myself to ensure the continued operation of our Pilates studio. Yet it’s exhausting and disheartening to consistently ask for support and patronage.
I am nothing but entrepreneurial spirit, there’s no one I’d rather work for, but I don’t have to dig too deep to see how over time the long hours and challenging seasons take their toll. It's crucial for us to be transparent with each other, to share in the struggles, and to know when and how to offer support.
Depending on where you’re reading this, you may not know that each of our Pilates studios features a carefully curated retail shop we fondly call our "Feel Good Shop." Within this space, we source our favorite high-quality fitness and casual clothing, perfect for staying active both in and out of the studio. As well as fitness props, beauty and wellness products, and we even have a gorgeous candle in our signature scent, poured by local business owner Erin of Elm Design. These brands not only feel good but do good, and every purchase helps us continue operating during slower times.
We understand that shopping on the island can be challenging, so we do our best to bring world-class brands right to you. This weekend, we invite you to our Freeland studio from 11:30-3:30 for a special - Sip and Shop! It's an opportunity to explore our Feel Good Shop, get to know each other and support local businesses.
Sip and Shop Details:
Date: Saturday, January 27
Time: 11:30 AM - 3:30 PM
Location: 1688 Main St. Freeland
Everyone who RSVPs and attends will receive a Class Credit and have the chance to enjoy fantastic savings.
If any local business owners/makers would like to join us this weekend please reach out to melody@pilatescollectivestudio.com.
If you’re not local but would like to show your support, consider purchasing one of our famous “Mystery Boxes” or a hand-poured candle in our signature scent. With notes of Lemon Verbena, Lemongrass, and Peppermint, it’s a delight!
Help us make room for the new. $300 (or more) value guaranteed! Contents will vary but you’ll Personalize to your specs (size, colors, style). WE DON’T SKIMP on quality here! Just act fast because inventory is limited and will go quick!
Poured by elm design on Whidbey Island scented candle 12oz/340g
Notes of Lemon Verbena, Lemongrass & Peppermint.
Looking for more completely free ways to support your favorite local businesses?
Word-of-Mouth Recommendations: Share your positive experiences with friends and family, creating organic referrals that can lead to new customers for the small business.
Online Reviews: Leave positive reviews on platforms like Google, Yelp, or social media, boosting the business's online reputation and influencing potential customers.
Social Media Engagement: Like, comment, and share the small business's social media posts to increase visibility and reach a broader audience at no cost.
User-Generated Content: Create and share photos or videos featuring the small business's products, encouraging authenticity and attracting attention from your social circle.
Attend or Promote Events: Participate in or promote the small business's events, both online and offline, helping to increase attendance and community engagement.
Join Loyalty Programs: Enroll in the small business's loyalty programs, showcasing consistent support and potentially earning discounts or perks as a loyal customer.
Subscribe to Newsletters: Sign up for the small business's newsletters to stay informed about promotions, events, and updates, helping them build a direct line of communication with customers. (see bottom of page)
Provide Feedback: Offer constructive feedback on products or services, aiding the business in making improvements and showing your commitment to their success.
Offer Skills or Services: Volunteer your skills, such as graphic design or photography, to help the small business enhance its visual content without additional costs.
Share Local Collaborations: Share information about collaborations between the small business and other local enterprises, promoting a sense of community and cross-support among businesses.