A few of Lisa’s personal favorite women-owned shops around town.

One thing I feel this pandemic has taught us is that we are all in this together. COVID-19 has created an existential crisis in our communities and all over the world. Small businesses and mom & pop shops are the heartbeats of our economy. Success is a joint effort, and when your community hurts, you hurt. Small businesses are being directly and indirectly affected by our current circumstances. Because of the suddenness of all this, most companies did not have enough time to prepare properly. So just like the old saying goes, “it takes a village…” well it takes a village to work together, to buy, sell and trade with one another to help heal our land.

One way we can help is to buy from our local businesses. Since Mother’s Day is fast approaching, I thought this would be a great time to share 5 of my personal local favorites to help spark your gift shopping juices. Supporting these local shops helps them keep their doors open and lights on.

Collections By Joya, Owner: Betsy Blancett-Narcelli

I love the uniqueness and quality of the jewelry. Knowing that every piece is hand-crafted by an expert artisan, makes me feel like I’m wearing a one-of-kind. Another thing to love is that a portion of every purchase goes toward a women’s charity.  https://www.collectionsbyjoya.com

Leopard Boutique, Owner: Rachel Sauter

I discovered Rachel’s hot finds after participating in a fashion charity show, and I was hooked. I can trust that she has something special every time I walk into the store or shopping online. Her staff is always helpful and knowledgeable, and can assist you in curating the perfect outfit, including shoes and accessories. https://shop.leopardboutique.com 

Lark Skin Co., Owner: Lisa Dolan

This is one of my new favorites, and I had to add it. I was gifted Lark’s cleansing balm and I absolutely love it!  I’ve since purchase several other products from the skincare line and they have proven to stand up to many other products I’ve used in the past. This is a wonderful gift to give someone who desires beautiful, healthy skin.  https://www.larkskinco.com

STL Cake Pops, Owner: Rachel Sarino

I have never been disappointed by Rachel’s delicious cake pops. There are so many flavors and designs to choose from, and if she doesn’t have what you’re looking for, she can probably make it.  There’s more than just cake pops, there’s cookie cakes, chocolate-covered Oreos and strawberries and cake pop kits.  https://stlcakepops.com

Rudy’s Flower Truck, Owner: Brittany Sarhage

I absolutely LOVE the idea of a flower truck, this gives me all the creative feels! But more than just the truck being beautiful, the flowers are as well.  Buying flowers from Rudy’s Flower Truck makes you feel like you’ve stepped back to a simpler time.  If you can’t get to the truck to get all the “fills”, they also deliver in the St. Louis City and County.  https://www.rudysflowertruck.com