Small business looks at creative way to stay afloat

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) – Small businesses are finding creative ways to stay afloat as the coronavirus calls for closings.

A popular option for some businesses has been curbside assistance. It’s a strategy the owners of Farmhouse Paint and Sip are looking towards as they adjust to the changes.

Normally the business is filled with chatter, creativity, and artists. All of that has come to a halt following the rapid developments of the virus.

“First it was impacting the number of people that were coming to visit,” says owner Thaime Nunez. “To now being closed and having zero customers come through the door, and having to cancel all the events that were coming up.”

Normally the classes they offer are in a group setting. So to help with social distancing, people can now pick up art kits.

“Curbside Crafts or Pick-up and Paint,” says Nunez. “You can choose to paint on canvas, we have two different sizes, and we’re going to do live classes.”

It’ll all be done through Facebook live, and from the comfort of your home.

All the material will be provided, so customers will simply have to pay for the kit online and pick it up.

Beth Weirick with Milwaukee Downtown suggests consumers should also get creative on how they support local businesses.

“By shopping online,” says Weirick. “We’re asking people to please considering purchasing gift cards to be able to provide them with some cash flow now so they can keep the businesses afloat.”

Milwaukee Downtown serves as a resource for both consumers and small businesses. Throughout the year they also host events like Downtown Dining Week and the Holiday Lights Festival.

Weirick and her team have already compiled a list of local businesses you can support online. They also plan on releasing a list of resources for businesses currently being impacted by the end of the day on Wednesday.

“Sometimes we have to keep positive about the situation and find new ways to distract ourselves,” says Nunez.

Farmhouse will begin having their art kits available for pick-up on Friday. You can find more information here.

You can find a list of local businesses you can support here.