By: Jessie Monsivais Photo via: Made in Corpus Christi Facebook
In a time of social distancing that brings cancellations of large gatherings, school and business shutdowns, and quarantine, our days have never felt more uncertain. However, this interruption sheds light on an opportunity for Coastal Bend businesses to reinvent traditional practices of consumerism and offer a modern method of product availability. Demonstrating fortitude and adaptability, Nikki Riojas, owner of the local retailer Made In Corpus Christi, has organized a virtual Shop Hop event that brings 11 vendors together to continue their business through Instagram.
Beginning Sunday evening from 8 pm until Monday night, locals can peruse the Instagram pages of beloved businesses including, Made in Corpus Christi, Sew Bonita, Lavender & Lee, Ila Designs, Gussied, Elevated Screen Printing, Taco Gear, Jewels Clothing & Accessories, JalaPena’s Salsa, Indigo Laine & Co., and Threads.
“To join in on the market, head to any of the Instagram accounts of the shops listed above at 8pm on Sunday,” Nikki shares with excitement. “You can shop from any of the posts. Each vendor will post a short intro about their shop and include any special offers or discounts they may be running during the 24 hours. They will then tag the next vendor, and customers will virtually “hop” from shop to shop purchasing items directly from their websites along the way.”
Explore specials on handmade jewelry, bags, apparel, and local designer goods – even salsa! Purchases will be made through each retailer’s website.
Many of the participating vendors have brick & mortar storefronts and studios that are feeling the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic quickly. Other suppliers rely on foot traffic from local markets and events, which has triggered financial stress due to cancellations.
“Shop Hop was designed to be a fun, interactive way of introducing local shops to a broader audience in a safe, virtual environment, and hopefully drive some revenue for stores that need it during this time,” shares Nikki.
Take a look at the participating shops:
- Made in Corpus Christi
- Sew Bonita
- Lavender & Lee
- Ila Designs
- Gussied
- Elevated Screen Printing
- Taco Gear
- Jewels Clothing & Accessories
- Jalapena Salsa
- Indigo Laine
- Threads
