Shopping Local on Small Business Saturday in Springfield, MO

As a small business, we’ve experienced firsthand how much heart and hustle go into running a local business. Small Business Saturday is more than a shopping day—it's a celebration of the community that keeps us thriving. This year, we’re excited to shine a light on some amazing local businesses offering deals that you won’t want to miss! Here’s a list of local shops offering special deals for Small Business Saturday 2024! But before we dive in…

Why does shopping local matter?

Shopping local strengthens the local economy. Did you know for every dollar spent locally, 60-70% of that dollar remains in the local economy?

Buying from small businesses builds personal connections in the community. You are personally supporting your neighbors, friends, and their loved ones.

Shopping local reduces environmental impact compared to online shopping.

Simply put, as small business owners ourselves, shopping local helps us provide for our families, work toward financial freedom, and do what we love every day with passion and purpose!

417 Deals on Small Business Saturday:

5 Pound Apparel - 412 South Avenue, Springfield MO

5 Pound Apparel will have a variety of sales for Black Friday, Small Business Saturday! They will also have online sales throughout the holiday weekend through Cyber Monday! Check out more info below!

Staxx - 2630 Glenstone Avenue, Springfield MO

Shop Staxx & Jellybeans on Small Business Saturday from 10:00-5:00 P.M.

Staxx will have a variety of sales all week long including Black Friday and Small Business Saturday! Check out more information on their graphic!

SKIN WISE - 5240 Town Centre Dr Suite 101, Ozark, MO 65721

Purchase a $100.00 Skin Wise gift card and get a FREE $25.00 Skin Wise gift card.

Open 10-2pm on Saturday, November 30, 2024.

Bree’s Little Closet - 1607 West Republic, Road, Springfield MO

Bree’s Little Closet will be having several sales on Small Business Saturday as well as hosting some pop-up vendors in store! Check out their flyer to see other boutiques participating in a shop small boutique crawl on November 30th!

Fetch Pet Supplies - 1337 West Republic Road, Springfield MO

Don’t forget your furry friends! Located right next door to Bree’s Little Closet is Fetch Pet Supplies! They have everything you need to treat your four legged friends for the holidays!

They are doing 20% off everything in store and a cute tote bag with purchases of $25 and up!

Askinosie Chocolate - 514 East Commercial Street, Springfield MO

If you’re up on Commercial Street, Check out Askinosie for some holiday treats or stocking stuffers!

Their factory storefront will be open 10-4 on Sat. 11/30 & will have free samples of everything available to try, including their Limited Edition Holiday offerings!

They are offering $1 off their seasonal chocolate bars when purchased together! Grab the Holiday Chocolate Bundle (Gingerbread Dark Chocolate + Cranberry Sauce White Chocolate) for $25 or their Thanksgiving Bundle (PSL White Chocolate, Cranberry Sauce White Chocolate & Cocoa Powder) for $47.50!

At Lightbox, we know the power of community. For five years, we’ve had the privilege of being a creative hub for photographers, families, and events here in Springfield. When you shop small, you’re doing more than buying something special—you’re supporting dreams, helping local businesses grow, and making our community stronger. Thanks for being part of it all and for choosing to shop local this holiday season!

Not planning to shop on Small Business Saturday? Here are other meaningful ways to support local businesses—no spending required!

• Follow and share their social media pages.

• Leave positive reviews on platforms like Google or Yelp.

• Spread the word by recommending local businesses to friends and family.

We want to hear about your favorite local 417 places to shop! Leave a comment below!

If you need more ideas on where to shop locally this holiday season, check out our 2023 shop local guide from last year!

Written by Bekah Knapp

Creative Coordinator & Socials

Q & A with a Photographer - Sydney Miro Media

Meet Sydney!

Sydney is a familiar face at Lightbox, and we are honored to be part of her creative journey! Keep reading to learn more about this extraordinary gal.

Photo courtesy of Sydney Miro Media

Sydney is a young entrepreneur in 417land who has an eye for modern, simplistic looks, which cultivate her editorial aesthetic. Born in Crofton, MD, Sydney moved to Springfield, MO, and has been immersed in the world of media since 2019. While her specialty is portrait photography, she occasionally dabbles in couple and family portraiture, weddings, and branding. Not only are we at Lightbox so grateful for Sydney’s trust in our studio, but we’re even more thankful for her years of friendship. Now, let’s dive in and get to know more about the lady, the lore, the legend - Sydney.

Q: How long have you been a photographer?
A: For about 5 years now, ever since I got my first camera for Christmas in 2018! During the first 3.5 years, photography was just a pursuit of passion. I juggled it with other commitments, dedicating my free time to honing my skills, experimenting with different styles, and understanding the technical aspects of photography. About a year and a half ago, I made the significant decision to transition into full-time photography!

Q: How were you introduced to photography?
A: I was first introduced to photography as a kid, when I was immersed in the world of art and photos because of my dad! My dad has been a skilled photographer for as long as I can remember, and I have vivid memories of dressing up for his photos, getting my photo taken at numerous locations, and even being a part of his own creations of backdrops.

Q: Your work has a very distinct style. How did you develop this style?
A: I developed this style incidentally (the all-neutral thing I’ve got going on)! Funny thing is, I believe my mental illness plays a huge part into how my style was developed. My anxiety and OCD takes on quite a few interesting forms: amongst them being the fact that my brain does not favor color. Bright and vibrant colors, to my noggin, come off very loud, noisy, and unpeaceful. If you were to ever take a peek into my apartment or my closet, you would also see that the only colors present are white, black, brown, and occasionally greens. So, although I thoroughly enjoy other photos with colors and can appreciate that art-wise, it doesn’t sit right with my own creative and personal vision with the way my brain is wired! The more ya know.

Q: Who or what influences your work?
A: Fashion and editorial magazines. I love the simple, minimalistic look and also trying new, spontaneous, but also subtle, ideas.

Q: What would your ultimate, dream photoshoot be?
A: Photographing Beyonce… If you’ve talked to me at least one time in my life, you probably know I love me some Beyonce. She has been my biggest inspiration and role model since I was probably 3, as I used to pursue singing/dancing and she does both so well and effortlessly. Now that I am older, I have also grown to appreciate her insane work ethic on top of her artistic talent. She would be my dream photoshoot mainly because I’d get to ask her all of the questions I’ve been dying to know my whole life, and she is drop. dead. gorgeous.

Q: What are some fun facts people may not know about you? 
A: I have 10+ years of professional dance training under my belt, and am also equally trained vocally!

Q: Which accomplishments are you most proud of?
A: I was able to turn my passion into a career at only 18 years old. I was always nervous about graduating high school because of college (I am not a school person!), and knew I wouldn’t feel fulfilled if I made myself attend college when I didn’t want to. So, I made something work for me that I absolutely love and that didn’t require a degree! Self taught baby. Literally anything is possible if you work for it.

Q: What is your favorite part about using Lightbox?
A: My favorite part about using Lightbox is the wide variety of props and backdrops they have to offer! You can do so many different styles and themes without having to bring anything yourself because the prop closet has just about anything you’ll need. AND the staff are the friendliest people I have ever met! I would say the staff at Lightbox are my supporters both professionally and casually.

Q: What is your favorite thing about your clients?
A: Their trust in my vision. Most people I book like to give me full creative freedom for their session and trust my judgement when it comes to outfits, backdrop colors, etc. I think makes for an amazing experience for both me and my client. OH! And when 80% of my clients ask me what I want from 7brew before our session because they know I love it so much.

Q: What is the most rewarding thing about being a photographer?
A: Being able to capture some of peoples’ biggest milestones. Whether it’s graduation, a baby, or a big birthday, it warms my heart that people trust me enough to leave them with pictures that last a lifetime and that might be put up in their homes!

Q: If you could give one piece of advice to yourself when first started as a photographer, what would it be?
A: It would be to try something new! I think I was so afraid of making art other people wouldn’t like that I lost focus on making art that I like. So yeah, Sydney - don’t be afraid to step outside of the box and your comfort zone, even if that post gets 5 likes.

Q: If you could give your clients one piece of advice, what would it be?
A: Ask me ALL of the questions! I never want my clients to be confused about their outfit for the vision we’re creating, and that cause them to not be fully comfortable or satisfied with the photos. So spam text me 5 times a week if you have to; I’m here to answer your q’s and collaborate!

Q: How would you like to use the studios at Lightbox in the future?
A: I would like to use the studios at Lightbox in the future by potentially going the non-photo route and filming! I also dabble in videography - mainly weddings - but would love to do some fun and creative film in the studio one day (maybe with dancers!).

Special thanks to Sydney for participating in our Q&A!

To find more of her breathtaking work, you can visit the following platforms.
Facebook: Sydney Miro Media
Instagram: @sydneymiromedia
Website: www.sydneymiromedia.com

A Modern and Moody Studio Wedding

They say rain is good luck on your wedding day! For Lindsey and Rand, this cloudy and rainy day didn’t keep them from embarking on this new journey together as husband and wife. Their time started out at Lightbox very calmly, with the photographer, florist and loved ones showing up to transform the studio into a beautiful backdrop for their wedding celebration.

The décor was simple and elegant, the first thing you saw when entering the studio was white, flickering faux candles adorning the spiral staircase. As you walk into the Loft, romantic florals sat on pedestals setting the scene for their nuptials.

Lindsey and Rand took full advantage of the photo studio prior to their intimate ceremony, using their florals and the black and white rolling backdrop to capture some sweet and modern portraits.

Photo by: Alyson Kay Photography

As guests arrived, Lindsey and Rand greeted them in The Lobby of Lightbox; sharing laughs and exchanging stories before heading upstairs to get seated.

Their ceremony was short and sweet - it was evident that there was so much love in the room! Before making their way to an off-site dinner at Flame, they were able to capture all of their family photos in the Loft as well as capturing more portraits outdoors al along Commercial Street!

We are incredibly thankful to have been a part in this special day and are so excited to share the beautiful images from their wedding day photographer, Alyson Kay along with some sweet words from the couple.

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Photo by Alyson Kay Photography

Lindsey & Rand

THE PROPOSAL:

“We had been together for several years and had talked about marriage, so I expected that a proposal was coming soon. Rand really wanted to surprise me, but that was becoming more and more difficult. One evening after work, I was supposed to meet him at our new home that we had been renovating to do a project. When I showed up, he had decorated our brand-new living room with lights and flowers and asked me to marry him. It was completely unexpected and so sweet!”

WHAT MADE YOU WANT TO HAVE AN INTIMATE WEDDING RATHER THAN A BIG WEDDING?

We really wanted to emphasize the close relationships we share with friends and family, so keeping things smaller allowed us to really connect with our guests and enjoy the day. 

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE LIGHTBOX AS YOUR WEDDING VENUE?

We chose Lightbox because it was a beautiful venue that allowed us to have the intimate wedding we wanted. Hannah and Bekah were incredibly helpful when we reached out and helped answer any questions we had along the way. 

Photo by: Alyson Kay Photography

DESCRIBE ONE ANOTHER USING ONLY 5 WORDS:

“Relaxed, detail-oriented, kind, thoughtful, intelligent” - Rand

“Intelligent, driven, futuristic, thoughtful, organized” - Lindsey

DESCRIBE YOUR WEDDING DAY IN 5 WORDS OR LESS:

Intimate, romantic, relaxed, minimalist

Photo by: Alyson Kay Photography

WHAT HAVE YOU BEEN UP TO SINCE YOUR WEDDING DAY?

Since our wedding, we have finished renovating our new home and settled into living there with our dogs, Nova and Jack. In September, we plan on taking our honeymoon in Greece. 

Vendors

Venue: Lightbox

Photographer: Alyson Kay Photography

Dress: Gracie's Bridal

Suit: Men's Warehouse

Dinner: Flame Steakhouse and Wine Bar

Florist: Good Ground Floral

Hair: Kaylee Mitchell

Makeup: Airbrush by Andie

Cake: Celebrations by Sonja

Decor: Pop in Color Balloons (flower stands)

Signage: Reverie Decor

Officiant: Amy Wallace

Photo by: Alyson Kay Photography

Photo by: Alyson Kay Photography

Photo by: Alyson Kay Photography

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If you are interested in having an intimate wedding at Lightbox, you can find info here.

Written by Bekah Schooler

Creative Coordinator - Lightbox

Supporting Local Small Business: Restaurant Edition

During these crazy times we need to remember to help out small businesses that are always there for us! Our Lightbox team all love to eat at all kinds of different local restaurants and we are trying to share the love during these times! If you are looking for somewhere to grab some food, or even a drink from, check out a small list of businesses still open for take out below! 

Bambino’s 

How could I leave out this Springfield staple? Bambino's is running one of the best meals for two special! For $19.99 you get to pick your favorite pasta from their menu that is portioned for two people, a salad with your choice of dressing, and their signature bread! I would definitely pick either The Bambino pasta or The Ziti! You don’t even have to leave your house for this amazing deal, they are offering delivery right now!

https://bambinoscafe.com

https://images.app.goo.gl/PzLbk5jFf2zwkfVb6

Bubba’s BBQ

Bubba’s BBQ is offering takeout and they also have their drive thru open. Along with their normal menu they also set up a mini market with many kitchen staples, some liquor, and fresh meat. They have two specials I would order if I were to get takeout. The first being their ultimate platter, which is your choice of 5 meats, 3 sides, and two pieces of toast which can feed 2 people for $17.99. Also, they have a special called the Coldcut Stockup which is 2 pounds of either turkey or ham, 2 quarts of sides, and a pack of buns for $29.99. 

https://www.bubbasozarkbbq.com

The Artisan’s Oven

Shoutout to one of our neighbors on C-Street! Another spot to hit up if you are in need of bread or flour! Artisan Oven is also now on GrubHub, and you can even get the bread delivered to along with their normal menu! If you decided to order from here, I highly recommend their Italian Hoagie or their homemade biscuits and gravy. 

http://theartisansoven.com 

The Roost Bar and Grill

The Roost has their normal menu going right now- and will bring it all out to your car! If you’re in the mood to eat some wings and binge watch old games of your favorite sports team, this is the place to get them from! They are currently only operating out of their Cox location. The Roadrunner wrap with onion rigs is my top pick for sure! 

http://theroostbarandgrill.com/menu/ 

https://business.facebook.com/TheRoostBarandGrill/photos/a.398658153479545/2688577854487552/?type=3&theater

Golden Girl Rum Club 

If you are tired of drinking your basic drinks at home, Golden Girl has you covered! They are offering drink packs to go along with some food from their menu! They are open Thursday-Saturday 5-9 for curbside carryout! I recommend their cheesy tots or their korean BBQ pork nachos paired with a blue hawaiian or mai tai cocktail kit! 

http://www.thegoldengirl.com

Frank ‘n’ Steins 

Frank ‘n’ Steins has their normal gourmet hotdogs and brats like always, but they are also running some amazing specials. They have “Backyard Boxes” that you can either have a dog, brat, or burger with a side and drink. They also have families that deal with a pan of brats, hotdogs, burgers, pulled pork, and more plus a pan of sides and sodas. You can even spice up your meal and change your soda to a beer if you would like.

https://www.eatfns.com 

Neighbor’s Mill 

Tired of the grocery store being out of bread? Visit Neighbor’s Mill! They have yummy homemade loaves of bread! They also have other essentials like flour and coffee. While you’re in, pick up some breakfast, lunch, or even a dessert! I have been dying to try their cinnamon rolls and sticky buns! 

http://www.neighborsmill.com 

https://images.app.goo.gl/Dz8B71aEnFTPkor67

B2 Cafe 

For those of you out taking a walk or who live by the Greenway Trail, this is the place to go for a coffee, smoothie, juice, or a quick bite to eat! They have curbside service, and just recently started a quick grab-and-go table that can help minimize person-to-person contact!  My go-to here is either the 5K power smoothie or a hot latte with their steel cut oatmeal!

https://go2b2.com 

Druffs 

Druffs is my go to, especially on our cooler rainy days that we have been dealing with. Grab yourself a gourmet grilled cheese and a cup of their delicious tomato soup! My go to sandwich is their Jidner with their house tomato soup. YUM!

http://www.yumdruffs.com

Garbo’s Pizzeria 

In addition to their fresh pizzas, subs, and calzones Garbos is also offering bake-at-home frozen pizzas! They have expanded their delivery services by adding curbside service. I personally love their Cheesy Delight and BBQ Chicken Pizzas! 

http://www.garbospizzeria.com 

https://www.facebook.com/garbospizzeriaeatlocal/photos/a.10150738304796617/10154802108741617/?type=3&theater

Great American Taco Company 

We can still celebrate Taco Tuesday at home! Great American Taco is still offering some Taco Tuesday specials, along with family meals every day and margaritas to go! I recommend the chicken and beef enchiladas (3 of each) which comes with chips/salsa and four drinks for $35. What a steal! 

https://www.greatamericantaco.com 

Tortilleria Perches 

Another go-to for all your taco or mexican food needs! Tortilleria Perches has some amazing family deals going on to help promote eating local! They have normal family packs and lil family packs! I recommend their Tamale pack or their Chicos Tacos pack! Prices range from $50-$60 for the family packs and $30 for the Lil’ Family packs! They are also offering deals for Taco Tuesday! 

https://www.tortilleriaperches.com 

Written by Jaylee Branch

Community Relations Coordinator - Lightbox

lightboxjaylee@gmail.com

Springfield Small Business Highlight - The Vintage Rental Company

Hi guys, Bekah here! I may be biased, but Springfield has some of the coolest, creative small business owners ever! In the months before Lightbox opened Hannah, Jaylee and I talked and daydreamed about all of the amazing people we would have the privilege of watching create, style and transform Lightbox! I I have absolutely loved getting to know these beautiful people and the work they do, so I thought you might like to get to know them a bit better too!

Today I have the pleasure of introducing you to Jaime Lile, owner of the Vintage Rental Company! The Vintage Rental Co. has a super unique collection of furniture and styling elements for all events, big and small! Jamie styled a gorgeous lounge area on the front patio at Lightbox’s open house back in October and has styled Christmas & Spring minis here at the studio as well! Jamie is SO talented at curating pieces that completely transform an event into something beautiful and special! I could go on and on about how wonderful she is, but let’s hop right in to this blog and get to know her and The Vintage Rental Company a little more!

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Photo by Shelby Chante Photography

Meet Jaime

Hey Guys! I'm honored that you're taking the time to read this, so let me start by telling you a little bit about myself. I'm Jaime--owner of The Vintage Rental Co. I'm married to the most talented man on the face of the planet, Clayton, who manages to run our other business Tantara Farms, while helping this one run smoothly. He builds things for me, and rescues me with larger orders that require our trailer....because this lady doesn't do trailers! We have two incredibly fun children, Winnie (5) and Cohen (2.5) who are always ready and willing to help me organize inventory and prep rental orders! Our little family is my absolute favorite, so you'll probably hear me talk about them if we ever meet (or have met) because they're my life! The Vintage Rental Co. is so special to me because I love being able to make a uniquely curated inventory, available to people so they're able to create an atmosphere for their special event that really feels like them! It has been so fun to see this baby of mine grow, and I absolutely love the people that I now get to call friends thanks to this business! I'm blown away by the talent in this 417 land we get to call home, including so many photographers that capture those special moments!

Photo by Keli Tetzlaff Photography

When did you start your business?

I officially established in August of 2015.

What do you feel is unique about your business?

Our inventory! I've curated a rental collection that is versatile and unique, with the idea in mind that you want something that reflects your personality! I also operate as an online storefront, so you're able to browse our full inventory from our website and create a wish list of the items you'd like to use from there. I try to make the whole process as easy as possible!

What is your favorite piece in your collection?

Can it really be narrowed down to ONE?!?!? If I had to choose, I think I would say our mismatched goblet collection. They're like jewelry for your table, and I absolutely love what they add to a tabletop!

Mismatched goblet collection - photo by Kailey Watson Photography

What is your favorite event you've been part of?

So, since I began Vintage Rental Co. I've been invited to help Dogwood Ranch with their yearly fundraiser dinner. It's something I look forward to because I love their heart and what their non-profit does. Their vision is to see that every foster youth and at-risk family within the heart of the Ozarks has the opportunity to function fully in their God-given gifts and destiny, impacting future generations. This dinner is one of the ways that they're able to run and provide the services that they do to foster youth, and so it's such an honor to help them with their decor every year for it. I have loved EVERY wedding, shower, birthday, photo shoot and party I've had the chance to be a part of, but the Dogwood Ranch event holds a special place in my heart for sure!

What is the most rewarding thing about what you do?

It is absolutely rewarding when I hear back from a client how our decor was able to help bring their vision to life, and when they share pictures with me of how it all looked in action!!! I don't always get to see the final product since we're there for the drop-off and pick-up, so I LOVE getting to see how clients have utilized the pieces they've rented! You can see their personalities in the look that they design, and I LOVE that!

What is the best thing about your clients?

Just reading that question makes me feel all warm and fuzzy on the inside. My heart truly swells when I think of all the people I've had the chance to work with! I love the creativity and kindness of my clients. It's the absolute best to see their unique personalities come out in the pieces they select to use! I don't know what it is, but Vintage Rental Co. clients are arguably the coolest people out there!

What is your favorite thing about your job?

This is another one of those questions that feels like it merits a 12 point bullet list because there's just so much that I love about it! My FAVORITE thing is the people that I've had the chance to get to know and become friends with because of this business. There's an AMAZING community of wedding professionals and creatives in this area, and I have loved the change to get to know so many of them! Oh, and this "job" gives me an excuse to buy all the pretty things I find and love!!!!!

Photo by Elise Abigail Photo

Photo by Elise Abigail Photo

What accomplishment are you most proud of?

I'm proud of the slow growth. *vulnerable moment to follow* It might seem silly, but my constant struggle is wrestling with the end-goal vision I have in my head with this business and where I'm currently at on that road map, and the comparing to other specialty rental companies I know across the nation. There are times where I want to rush ahead and check things off my dream list, but the timing just hasn't been right. So, rather than trying to force the growth, I'm learning to celebrate the process. It's an accomplishment that I am where I am right now with the rental collection I have! Especially when I think of the 50 milk bottle drinking glasses, 2 vintage suitcases, and 4 wooden crates that I started with nearly 5 years ago in my spare bedroom.

What do you wish you would have known when you first started your business that you know now?

CRM softwares are God's gift to the overloaded brain. I recently decided on one, and I wish so badly I'd been doing this since the beginning. It improves and regulates the client experience, and has helped so much not slip through the cracks on my end in being a one-woman-show.

What inspires you?

Quiet. Being a work-at-home mom with two kids that aren't in school yet, I don't often get to work in quiet. But when I do, I feel the most inspired and focused!

If you could add one dream piece to your collection, what would it be?

AH! This is a fun one! I don't want to tell you fully because it's a surprise, but I'm planning to add a special tool to my "work belt" that will make it possible to make some really amazing custom pieces!

Photo by The North Lens

Photo by Shelby Chante Photography

What are some fun facts people may not know about you?

I went to school to be an Occupational Therapy Assistant and have a Bachelor's in Psychology as well. I'm allergic to peanuts (that's not really fun, but I feel like it's good for you to know so you don't open a Snickers bar next to me). We recently built a chicken coop and are about to make some raised garden beds (fingers crossed because every garden attempt I've ever made has failed epically). I'm left handed. I'm an enneagram 1w9. I'm a sucker for ALL personality tests! I LOVE talking motherhood and business owning! So, if you're a mom who owns a business- I am ALL about coming alongside you to cheer you on in those endeavors! It's not for the faint of heart!

What is one way you would love to see your pieces be used in the future?

Well, at the time of writing this we're in the midst of the Stay-at-Home order with the COVID-19 pandemic. (This also explains my incredibly lengthy answers because I'm starved for adult human interaction at this point, so this ALMOST feels like a conversation I'm getting to have). That being said, I CANNOT wait to see our inventory in action again for everyone's special days. It's been so sad to have to delay some of the most special get togethers in people's lives including weddings, proms, baby/wedding showers and birthday parties. That being said, my dream event right now is the get together I want to have in our backyard with our friends and family when all of this is over using our farmhouse tables and bistro chairs, table top decor, and dinnerware!!! I can't wait!

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Jamie, thank you SO much for taking the time to share your story with us! We are so looking forward to working with you more in the future and seeing the path that you continue on!

Written by Bekah Schooler

Creative Coordinator - Lightbox

If you are a business owner in the 417 area and are interested in being featured on the Box Blog, reach out to Bekah at lightboxbekah@gmail.com

How Springfield Locals are Spending Quarantine

Hi guys! Bekah here! It’s been a quiet couple weeks at Lightbox! The COVID-19 pandemic was something we never expected and as a small business, we know it can feel like a rug has been ripped from right under your feet!

Photographers, business owners, makers, bloggers, parents and health care workers….EVERYBODY has been affected by this so we decided to send out a questionnaire to our followers and ask different questions on how they are handling quarantine, social distancing, and working from home!

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First of all, on a scale of sweatpants to power suit, how are you handling quarantine today?

“Putting in the 9-5 work…but in sweatpants” - “3 cups of coffee so far :P” - “Scale is around leggings and a sweater lol” - “Power Suit! - “Jeans and a cardigan but i’ve been wearing the same t-shirt for 2 days” - “Scrubs!” - “Sweat pants FO SHO”

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Photo courtesy of Sarah Storer - @Simplysarahbagarah

We found that most of our answers were from people who would fit into a “creative entrepreneur” category, but we did have a handful of health care workers, parents, service workers and more! We asked them:

How are you staying creative during this time?

“Hoping to do some self portraits and let my inspiration lead the way!”

“I’m having painting sessions every couple days & taking advantage of free resources!

"Daily meditation // gratitude journal // nature walks”

”Projects around my home and keeping up with clients and rescheduling”

”The No Way Jose 52 Challenge!”

“‘Shopping’ my decor stash and restyling my home instead of going out to shop”

“Piano, drawing!”

“Creating without boundaries! No set goals just fun!”

“Working on my business and investing into it!”

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A couple local businesses also jumped in to answer some extra questions and give us some insight into how this has changed their work-flow!

Bree’s Little Closet

Brianna and Tina Barnett are good friends of Lightbox! They own and operate a mobile women’s boutique in Springfield and the surrounding areas! With everything going on, they told us they had to shut down their store completely, move every single item out of the truck and into their office, and transfer every item online. All of the events for the end of March and April were cancelled.

“How has the last week been for you, how has it affected your business?”

Bree’s Little Closet: “We have realized that we are not alone in this and every single person has been affected in one way or another. I’ve personally had to realize that it’s okay if customers don’t buy my products right now, because they have more important things to pay for. Some people have lost their jobs or have lost hours at work, so we don’t expect for people to purchase our products when they’ve lost their income. For us, we are okay! Our business is okay! We are financially okay! People have been incredibly supportive throughout this difficult time, which we are very blessed for!”

“What is bringing you hope and encouragement?”

Bree’s Little Closet: “The fact that I know we are not alone and that every single person has been effected by this in one way or another. I also love knowing that I have friends & family that are here for us if we needed anything! I love our support system!”

Bree and Tina also said they are spending this time enjoying the little things, listening to podcasts, dancing to music, binge watching Netflix and getting ahead of the things they had been putting off. Also just taking the time off to rest, take it easy and invest in themselves!

We love you Bree and Tina! You can support them by following them on Instagram: @breeslittlecloset. Sharing and liking their posts or ordering from their online shop! breeslittlecloset.com

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Leigh Smith - @leighsmithphotography

Leigh is a good friend and has shot at the studio several times! We asked how she was staying creative and she talked about how she is working on drawing a little bit each day and revisiting old photo galleries to edit and breath some new life into them! Such a good idea!

“How has COVID-19 affected your business?”

Leigh: “Photography has always been a finicky business for me, but I've had to do a bit of rescheduling and work out a couple of cancellations which is a new territory for me. Bills tend to pile on at the first of the month, so, I'm bracing for April.”

“How has the last week affected you? Personally, spiritually, or in your business?”

Leigh: “This last week has been quite mentally and physically exhausting but, oddly needed. I've been outside a lot this last week which has refreshed my soul and overall well-being. I haven't felt connected to the outdoors in a long while. Slowing down and "staying in place" has been a blessing in disguise.”

I think we can all relate to being exhausted by this situation, Leigh! Can’t wait to have you back at the studio once this is all over! You can support Leigh by checking out her work and sharing your thoughts or viewing her website, leighsmithphotography.pixieset.com or Instagram at @leighsmithphoto.

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Photo courtesy of Sarah Storer, @simplysarahbagarah

How are you handling social distancing?

“It’s hard!! I love traveling and I’m a sucker for talking to new people.”

“SEND HELP”

“My husband and I work from home so it’s not much change except we can’t go out together!

“OOF, it’s rough! Lots of tears. Lots of Netflix. Zoom and face time for hours.”

“I miss being around people… and I’m an introvert!”

“Horribly! I’m an extrovert! I get my energy from lots of hugs!

Right there with you friends! I love my home and Netflix, but i’m definitely getting stir crazy! Hang in there!

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What is bringing you encouragement?

“Hill City House Church Playlist on Spotify” - “Friend, Family, God’s Word, & Nature” - “Making phone call connections with strangers and loved ones I’m in the same boat with” - “Music!” - “Through others! Family and close friends for sure!” - “Group texts with family, tuning into live IG and prayer!” - “Friends who check on me”

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Elle Steward - @Ellescottage

Local maker, Elle Steward runs an Etsy shop! She expressed her concern in these times with the slower traffic on her website and that her secondary job won’t be starting for another month. She also was very transparent in the fact that times like these have increased anxiety and are really hard on mental health.

”How are you finding encouragement through this time?”

Elle: “All the good people are creating in the world! I love seeing everyone band together & support each other. All the free resources & courses have been such a blessing. I’m staying connected by popping on live streams & zoom calls & contacting my friends all the time. I’ve spent more time studying the Bible & am leaning on my mom.”

“What is something you want to accomplish in this time of social distancing?”

Elle: “I want to grow in my relationships with my friends & family. It’s something that’s already started & I want to consciously cultivate it. I also want to do the inner work on my business so when this is over I can jump into boutique collaborations, craft fairs, & events with a solid foundation & quality products.”

“How are you handling the lack of social contact and interaction?”

Elle: “I’m actually more connected than ever! My friends finally have time to write me back & stay in touch, people are online doing calls & live streams & my social cup is full because of all of it.”

Thank you so much for sharing, Elle! You can support Elle by connecting with her on Instagram (@ellescottage) or shopping from her store! www.ellescottage.com

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As for me, I wish I could say I’m the type of person that got up every morning and meditated, did my makeup and worked in my office. HA! I’d totally be lying to you guys! You won’t be seeing any selfies from me on this post! However, my cat Georgia is very photogenic and has been enjoying the extra snuggles while I work in sweatpants on my couch for the 10th day in a row! Though this is a stressful time, I’m very thankful to have a good support system and a comfortable place (with fast internet) to get through it!

The Lightbox team have also been working from home but we are so ready to be back at the studio and seeing all of your smiling faces! We love you all and our sending out all the love and virtual hugs to you!

It is our hope that through all of this, we are still able to provide a sense of community to our fellow Springfieldians! We strongly believe that hard times are a little easier when we go though them together, and I hope after reading this blog post you feel like you’re not alone! Thank you to everyone who reached out and shared their stories with us! While we couldn’t include every single response (this blog post would have been miles long) please know your answers were read and heard. You are all in our thoughts and prayers! Stay safe and healthy at home friends!

You can support Lightbox by snagging some of our merch!

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Written by Bekah Schooler

Creative Coordinator - Lightbox

lightboxbekah@gmail.com