It's no secret that local businesses are undoubtedly getting hit hard by the coronavirus crisis. Right now, I'm worried about my local restaurants, favorite stores and small- business owners making it out of this pandemic unscathed. Fortunately, there are a number of ways that we can help our local economies by supporting small businesses during this time. Here are a few ways that you can help...

1. Order carry-out from your favorite local restaurant

Only in a pandemic can you feel like a true hero by doing something as simple as ordering carry-out! Restaurants in Northern Virginia (where I'm based) are yet to open their doors for dine-in service, but many are offering carry-out and delivery options. If you are in the Northern Virginia area, some of my personal favorites include: Pulcinella, CAVA (local chain), Masala Indian Cuisine, Pizzeria Paradiso (another local chain) and Wok N' Roll. And now, in many cities, you can order drinks to-go, too! If you are craving alcoholic slushies or a famous "Fauci Pouchy" drink in the D.C. area, you are in luck. When it comes to carry-out cocktails, there are a number of options to choose from!

2. Shop online at your local boutique

Shop at your favorite local boutique online! With less foot traffic coming into their doors, boutiques are coming up with new and creative ways to engage with their customers. If you live in NoVA and are looking for a fun gift to give a family member or friend, I recommend checking out The Artisans. You can purchase items through the phone or schedule an appointment for a one-on-one "shopping spree." I enjoy shopping here because I am able to help one of my favorite local stores and support local artists in my area.

3. Looking for a birthday present for a friend? Order a gift card from a spa/nail salon for a future spa day

I don't know about you, but my nails are absolutely tragic at the moment. Once things return to normal, one of my first stops will be to a nail salon to feel human again. Many local spas and nail salons are now offering gift cards to use for future appointments, post-pandemic. These purchases will help employees have an income, even when they aren't allowed to have clients at the moment. So, treat your future self or someone who needs a proper pampering and order a gift card today! Two of my favorite spots are Lilyana's Nail Salon and NIB Studio.

4. Take time to write online reviews for your favorite local spots

When in doubt, you can always leave a review at some of your favorite spots around town on websites like Tripadvisor or Yelp or on social media. This is an especially great way to help local businesses if you aren't able support local businesses financially right now. Writing positive reviews will give the businesses exposure they need and can potentially attract new customers to their business after the pandemic.

5. Don't forget to tip!

Now is not the time to be a skimp on a tip! If you really want to help out your local restaurants, leave a bigger tip than you normally would when ordering carry-out or getting delivery. Every dollar counts right now!

I'd love to hear about some of the ways that you all are helping your local businesses during this time. Please share with me any additional tips you may have or some of your favorite local restaurants to be featured in future articles!

Until Next Time,

Caroline