For the last 11 years we have been driven every day by our purpose: helping independent Makers and small businesses find their people and grow their business. The COVID-19 pandemic is impacting these businesses in an unprecedented way across the US and around the world. We’re connecting with a few of our Makers to elevate their stories and share the challenges they face. With these stories, we hope our community can see the impact of their support and how these businesses are foundational to our society.
Inspired by their own eco-conscious lifestyles and California’s ban on plastic shopping bags, Lotus Trolley Bag Makers Farzan and Jen thought they could improve upon standard reusable bags. They wanted to create a better shopping system, so their pocketed inserts hang inside the cart for easier filling and hauling. The bags were such a hit, they sold out within two weeks of being introduced.
The reusable bag alternatives and then the follow-up mesh produce bags resonated with folks. Great reviews and glowing feedback from customers keeps the couple going.
“Believe in what you’re doing, and believe in why you started doing this in the first place.”
Farzan
Jen and Farzan started their small business at home, and even when it grew to include 15 employees, they all operated at of the duo’s house. The team had to switch to working from their own homes due to the pandemic, but they all stay in close contact.
Farzan and Jen are connecting with other small businesses in southern California to share support and advice. And though times may seem tough, they know things will eventually change for the better. Farzan encourages others to remember, “This is just a moment in time, focus on the bigger picture.”
“As a small business we definitely feel it. We’re just trying to be smart to weather through this.”
Farzan
