Protective Essentials during Covid-19

As a small business in Seattle, like many others we were hit hard by the Covid-19 crisis. With sales down 90% and the state ordered closure of our showroom. We were forced to go to an online only format. Although small we were getting a few Italian bedding and home décor sales. In conferring with our Italian Linens partners, they offered face masks, as they had changed their production from fine linens to face masks. At first, I was reluctant, as I didn’t want to take advantage of a bad situation.  While also realizing I needed to pivot my business model to survive. Seeing on social media such an extreme shortage of face masks, I decided to offer my clientele the opportunity, to purchase face masks and hand sanitizer as well. I mean who wouldn’t want a fancy fabric face mask, made in Italy? Within days our initial order was sold out. I then realized we were filling in a much-needed demand, in Seattle and across our nation. My clients have written emails thanking me for offering these, as they had no idea where to get them. They are also happy to be helping two small businesses, one here and another across the world.