The pandemic that has plagued the country since March has affected every facet of living, and perhaps it’s hit small businesses hardest of all.
Marblehead is no exception. The Chamber of Commerce already lost one of the two Sidewalk Sales days it sponsors every year. But it is going ahead with the second one, which will be Saturday, Sept. 12. This is a town-wide affair where local merchants hope to be able to move some inventory and, in the process, offer customers some good deals.
“Our first one was scheduled in June,” said executive director Beth Ferris, “but it was just a few days after stores were reopening. We were getting used to new protocols, and there wasn’t enough time to plan it. Now that everyone knows what they need to do to take care of customers, we’re going ahead with it.”
Ferris said the chamber, and the merchants, will strictly follow all state protocols. Masks will be mandatory for anyone shopping at the various tables and displays, or going into stores, and areas will be disinfected.
Ferris said all the small local businesses have felt the sting of COVID-19.
“Just in general, our stores were closed for a few months, which presented
huge challenges for anyone running a small business,” she said. “This will be an opportunity to turn over some sale merchandise, and to keep things moving.
“We’ve received great support from the citizens of Marblehead, and we hope that’ll continue.”
One of the keys, she said, is creativity.
“Our Board of Selectmen has established a ‘Reopen Marblehead’ committee that is helping businesses and restaurants find a way to be creative, and to set up as many outdoor venues as possible.
“We’re doing our best,” she said.
Ferris said every store that wants to participate can take part.
“The town has established an annual ‘Celebrate Marblehead’ program with the chamber, which allows for small beautification projects, like sidewalk planters and other things, and expanded cafe seating.”
Over the years, she said, the Sidewalk Sales days have been well received.
“They’re really celebrated in the community,” she said. “It brings in people from all over the area to shop.”
Ferris also said that the nature of small business, along with its variety, works to the town’s advantage sometimes.
“That’s the wonder of shopping locally,” she said. “There are many different treasures to be found in the town.”
The town’s restaurants will take part in the day, but the offering of free food and beverages cannot be included, she said.
“We welcome people to come to town, grab a bite to eat, and make a day of it,” she said. “But handing out anything is against the state’s protocols.”
“We welcome you to stroll along Atlantic Avenue, visit the fabulous stores on Pleasant Street, and meander down to the Historic District to enjoy all that Marblehead has to offer,” she said.