MEMPHIS, Tenn. — Last year, many small businesses were dealing with the pandemic shutdown. This year, things are back open, but there’s still some challenges to face.
“Happy Thanksgiving,” said Kristin Wolter, Everbloom Design Owner and Lead Designer.
After that, happy small business Saturday!
Local shops in Memphis are gearing up for the busy day.
We stopped by Everbloom on Broad Avenue.
“We’re much more prepared with retail and staffing this year,” said Wolter.
Considering last year, we were in the middle of a pandemic shutdown.
“I actually had COVID, so we weren’t open as much as I would have liked,” said Wolter.
This year, the shutdown is a non-factor; however, the supply chain shortage is an issue.
“Lots of our candle makers had a shortage of wax,” said Wolter. “There’s also been a big shortage in flowers... We have tried to stock as many things as we can given the supply chain. It’s been a little difficult.”
Over at Muddy’s Bake Shop, it is a similar issue.
“We’re headed into ginger season with molasses cookies and things like that. Our suppliers right now are sort of scrambling to help us get our candied ginger. It’s been a lot of weird things though... things like graham crackers for like graham cracker crumbs,” said Kat Gordon, Muddy’s Bake Shop Owner.
For Muddy’s, Thanksgiving is so busy, they close for small business Saturday. Instead, they support other local shops.
“I think this year has taught us, if nothing else, how important our small businesses are to the fabric of our community. These are our friends. These are our neighbors, people who often work in these businesses, often supply these businesses,” said Gordon.
This Saturday, we give back to you.