Today we're happy to chat with PJ Eames of Clover Gift Shop!
*If you're just finding our "Staying at Home in Woodstock" series, welcome! During the COVID-19 crisis, we are connecting with local businesses, entrepreneurs, and non-profits to help encourage and support one another through this difficult time. Please contact us directly if you would like to be featured.*
Who are you and where do you live?
I’m Patricia (PJ) Eames and I live in Woodstock VT with my family; Jared, Caitlin, & Hannah.
What do you do? For how long have you been doing it?
I own Clover Gift Shop in the Village of Woodstock. I’ve owned Clover for just over 12 years.
How has your life and livelihood changed in the time of Covid-19?
Well, my store has been closed since March 16, so life has changed quite a bit. Clover is where I used to normally spend 60+ hours per week, but I’m now there maybe 4-5 hours per week to fill online orders & orders for curbside pickup.
The majority of my time is spent at home, teaching my daughters, ages 5 & 7. I am worried about the future, financially speaking, of course, but I’ve realized that this situation is out of my control, so I am trying to focus on the positive. It always seems as though life is going by too quickly, and now I have a chance to slow down and spend quality time with my family.
What is the most important thing that people can do to help support you and/or your business?
Right now, ordering from our website is a huge support, also ordering gift cards for future use is a big help. Our entire website is 25% off until we are able to re-open the store. We have worked with several customers to put together awesome gift/care packages. Mother’s Day is right around the corner, and we’d be more than happy to put together some gifts for mom!!
What changes do you hope to see in a post-quarantine world?
I hope that people are more conscientious about where they are spending their money. Small businesses are really struggling right now, but thankfully we are also seeing a tremendous outpouring of support. People are shopping differently, trying to support their neighborhood businesses, and we need that to continue when this pandemic is gone from the headlines. It will be a very long time until things get back to “normal”, and it will most likely be a very different normal. The support of small businesses once the economy starts re-opening is going to be key to our survival.
Thanks, PJ - we can't wait to see your doors open once again!
Photos from the Clover website and Woodstock Magazine.
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