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SHNobody really talks about how quickly it can change.
One day you’re busy, full, hopeful… and then suddenly you’re standing in a completely different reality.
Small businesses are being hit hard right now. And I don’t think most people realize just how fast and how deep this shift has been. I understand — truly — that life is expensive. The cost of living is high, and everyone has to be more mindful about how they spend. People are still shopping… but more and more, they’re choosing the convenience of online.
And that choice is quietly changing the landscape of our towns.
So many people move here for the charm of a small town — and it’s honestly scary to think that charm can slowly disappear.
For me, I’m in a good place. I’m grateful that I’m able to step away before things get really bad. I feel content and at peace with my decision to close. This business wasn’t my entire livelihood — but for so many small businesses in this town, it is everything. And they don’t have an easy out.
I’ve tried to be vocal about what’s happening, because so many locals assume that since there are always out-of-towners around, these shops must be “doing fine.” The truth is… a lot of them are not. And it happened fast.
If there’s one thing I can do before I leave, it’s this:
To be a voice for the businesses that are still here, still trying, still fighting to navigate what is shaping up to be a very hard year.
If you love your small town.
If you love your local shops.
Please don’t forget about them.
They need you now more than ever. 🤍
@shop.rioandco
