Note: The Lawrence Times runs opinion columns and letters to the Times written by community members with varying perspectives on local issues. These pieces do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the Times staff.
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It’s Women’s History Month, a time to recognize women who have changed our society for the better. It is also a time to highlight and honor women-owned businesses in our community that have overcome many obstacles these past two years.
My local small business, BodyTruth Soap Apothecary, experienced these challenges firsthand. I opened my business in January 2020, with a stable stream of customers and support. Then the COVID-19 outbreak shut the country down.
I quickly pivoted my business online, selling my products directly to customers through my Instagram Shops. Now, two years later, this shift to e-commerce has become the norm. According to a recent State of Small Business Report, about half of women-led businesses rely on digital tools to sell products to their customers. I have found these tools to be very helpful in keeping my business afloat.
Shortly after the start of the pandemic, people protested across the country in support of Black lives. There was an outpouring of support for Black-owned businesses like mine. During this time, I found a sense of healing through my business. I began hosting meditation workshops to give back to my community for all the security they had provided me.
Throughout the entirety of Women’s History Month, I encourage people to visit a woman-owned business whether in person or online. We can adapt to change as much as possible, but without the local support, many local businesses wouldn’t be around today. Please continue to support local women-owned businesses.
Signed,
Stephanie Willis (she/her), BodyTruth Soap Apothecary
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