For the past few weeks, I’ve been talking endlessly on my Social Media how important it is for us to support small and local businesses during this time.

Like many of you small business owners, I’ve also had to stop providing services because of the COVID-19 pandemic. However – I am still doing what I can to help my fellow small business owners stay afloat.

If you choose to eat out, eat local

My sister was at a food truck stop on Maui and overheard one of the trucks talking about how they only made $50 that day. Think about this the next time you decide to eat out. The bigger fast food chains will most likely make it. Support local restaurants that are staying open at this time.

Shop at local grocery stores

The same concept goes with grocery stores. Instead of shopping at the big brand stores, try a local grocery store instead.

Purchase a gift card

Gift cards are a great way to show support towards those working on the front lines at this time. Purchase a gift card from a small local shop or restaurant and gift them to someone. You’ll be helping 2 people at once!

You don’t have to spend money to support a business. If you’re tight on money, try these free ways to support a small business.

Leave a review

Ask your favorite local businesses where you can leave a review! This helps them a ton! Leave a review on Google, Yelp, Facebook.

Promote their social media

It can be a dedicated post or a story! Share about these businesses to your followers! Their next paying customer could be scrolling through your feed right now.

Share their posts

Press that little airplane button on IG and share their posts! It is so easy to share a post to your story!

Say thank you

Simply say thank you. Thank you for being open during this time. Thank you for serving our community.

Ask how you can help

Send these businesses a message or email and ask how you can help them at this time. If you have some free time on your hands, see if you can offer any assistance, paid or not.

Share your support and gratitude

When you’re saying thank you, also take the time to share your support and gratitude. A few nice words goes a long way.

Interact with their social media posts

Interaction on Social Media goes a long way! Trust me. Coming from someone who always watched the algorithm, it makes a difference. Like, comment, save, share. Like, comment, save, share.

For my Maui readers – here are some of my favorite local businesses.

Cymz Sweet Kre8tionz – get some sweet treats! You can’t go wrong with any of their products. They are all so delicious! Pre-order and pick up Thursday – Saturday! Also available on Door Dash and Bite Squad.

Next Level Entertainment – DJ Joe Cortez does live parties on Facebook! Tune in daily!

Yanagida Fitness – Justin and his team are holding zoom workouts, so you can keep up with your fitness!

D&E Premier Cleaning and Maintenance – This is actually my mom’s business. If you’re looking for any cleaning services during this time for yourself, a friend, a fellow business owner, reach out to me. We are still open and taking on cleaning services!

Cupies – Available on Doordash and Bite Squad! The chopped steak is my favorite!

Pure Purpose Hawai’i – Pure Purpose is a non-profit that strives to empower Hawai’i’s youth. Pure Purpose talks about depression, anxiety, and other mental health illnesses. Right now, the Pure Purpose team is working harder than ever to provide any help, advice, and support to those struggling at this time.

Elly’s Formal Wear – For all of my brides and grooms, ELLY’S IS STILL OPEN! They’re taking private appointments so you can still find your dream dress for the big day.