During the Coronavirus shutdown, I am doing all I can to try to help support those local businesses that need us now more than ever. I wanted to take a moment and let you know what two of my favorite small boutiques are doing during this time and how you can still shop small during COVID-19.
The Fort
We have mentioned The Fort on the blog before because it is one of my favorite places to shop for gifts for every occasion.
This little, hidden gem has unique finds at great prices. Owner-operator Pam Clark searches for these finds, some are new and some are vintage! Check out her website to get on “the list” or follow on social media.
The Fort is located in Pam’s freestanding 1927 garage near downtown Raleigh. Before the shutdown, her door would go up a few times a week for your viewing and shopping pleasure but Pam is doing all she can to keep the business running during this time.
Her porch is now operating as pick up central but she is also shipping items if you are not able to pick them up or want a gift delivered to a friend or family member.
Please continue to call or text me at 919-946-8308. I am very responsive and always happy to send you photos and offer suggestions for any gift situations you may have. People are still celebrating birthdays, babies, friendship, and everything else we can come up with to get through this. The other person who might need a little pick-me-up is YOU!! Don’t forget that!” – Pam
Pam recently arranged a Candle Sniffing Party, on her front porch. One of her customers wanted a new scent for her home. So, Pam put four candles on the porch for her to test. She chose two, put them in a Fort bag Pam provided, texted her a photo of the two she selected and Pam was able to send her the total and the sale was completed! It is that easy and fun.
Instagram Auctions
As you can see, Pam has gotten very creative over the last few weeks and has even been holding Instagram Auctions. From her previous auction, she raised $3,500 for the Food Bank of Central and Eastern North Carolina! Pam’s goal is to raise $5,000 when all is said and done. Be on the lookout for her next auction on Instagram.
How to Shop The Fort During COVID 19
1. Email Pam at pamclark@thefort3512.com, call or text her at 919-946-8308.
2. Porch Pickup Instructions – 3512 Clark Avenue, Raleigh, is the address. However, the front porch is on Montgomery Street (corner of Clark and Montgomery). Look for the brick wall and iron gate. Pull the gate towards you to open. Follow the sidewalk to the right. Your purchases will be socially distanced from one another. Kind of a joke but, not really. 😉
The Rusty Bucket
The Rusty Bucket is located in Apex and is owned by husband and wife team, Mack and Pam Thorpe. They also happen to be my wonderful aunt and uncle. The store carries American country, farmhouse, rustic, and primitive home décor. They are known in the area for their custom made furniture. If you see something online – or in a magazine – but need a different size or finish, get a picture. Most times they can re-create it for you and customize it for your needs.
While shopping in the store is closed, you can still shop online, and through their Facebook and Instagram pages. One of their new offerings is the “Bucket Box“. The Bucket Box includes a 14-oz. Lavender-Lemongrass soy candle from 1803 Candles, a bar of artisan coconut milk lavender soap, and a sweet towel that says “Home is My Happy Place.” Why lavender lemongrass you ask? Lavender is well known for being calming and reducing stress and anxiety. Lemongrass is uplifting, cleansing, and promotes a sense of optimism. The combination of these two scents into one beautiful candle is EXACTLY what we all need right now. These are sure to go quickly. Purchase yours here.
A note from Pam…
The impact to small Main Street type businesses (banking looks at “small businesses” as having less than 500 employees…. mom and pops typically have less than five) is greater because we dont have the same access to relief as the larger “small businesses”. We’ve applied for all the SBA loans and like many in our position, wondering how long we can keep the business going while the doors are locked.
Please consider supporting local for all your shopping needs during this time.