During the COVID-19 pandemic, many small business owners have had to make tough decisions about how to operate amid the chaos. But despite all the challenges, local business owners are still forging ahead and finding inspiration in the fact that we’re all in this together.
We recently caught up with Lori Shifter, owner of The Silver Lady, to learn how she’s adapting to the “new normal.”
What do you love most about your business?
Lori Shifter: For 34 years, I have loved the social interaction with my customers, seeing them excited about our unique sterling silver jewelry, and introducing them to all kinds of stones, rocks, and minerals.
How has your business been impacted by COVID-19?
Lori Shifter: We have been closed and the lack of contact has been lousy. Our customers enjoy trying on jewelry and getting educated on the vast number of stones available to them. Not being open for Mothers DAY is sad. I ADORED my mother and it’s a very important holiday for me. Helping a person find that meaningful piece for their mom is sacred.
How are you pivoting your business model to accommodate employees, customers, and vendors during the COVID-19 pandemic?
Lori Shifter: We have reached out to customers on social media, phone calls, and personal cards to stay in touch. We are by appointment only now, delivering orders or repairs or shipping them.
How can community members continue to support your business during this challenging time?
Lori Shifter: The community can share our information with family and friends, buy a gift card for future purchases or as a gift, or buy on our website at shopthesilverlady.com.
What are you doing to think proactively about your business when the economy is reopened?
Lori Shifter: We will allow a few people to shop at a time, continue wearing gloves and a mask and ask that they do the same.
*If* you have any free time, what are you reading, listening to, creating, watching, cooking, baking, or doing to pass the time indoors? What are you doing for health and wellness?
Lori Shifter: I started reading BIG LITTLE LIES , finished it last night and am on to Bella Tuscany. I’ve been very busy in the garden, cooking similarly to before, going through filing cabinets and shredding lots of old paper work. Every day, I’ve been running or walking and lifting weights on my own. Stretching a lot. Enjoy the sounds of spring. Hanging out with my hubby.
