Writer: McCale Ashenbrener
Alexander Graham Bell famously wrote, “When one door closes, another one opens.” It is an insufficient analogy for the coronavirus pandemic, that seems to close doors as soon as we can pry them open. Yet there have been insights, adjustments, and bright spots as everyone has been forced to reflect and pivot during these strange times. These local Eagle businesses share how they have innovated and grown in the face of adversity.
Idaho Central Credit Union, Chief Executive Officer Kent Oram.
A member-owned, full-service financial institution with the mission to help members achieve financial success.
We have had the opportunity to help members who were struggling with employment changes and loss of income. ICCU was also able to help many businesses through the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) program. While we have always had online options such as our online banking app, Card Control, video chat and mobile deposit, we have been able to increase the usage of these options. These services allow members to work with us face-to-face and perform almost any transaction without leaving their homes. Members who have never used our online services learned to use them out of necessity and The Green Team was there to help them every step of the way. Our ability to assist our members online, from wherever they are, has been one of our biggest successes.
https://www.iccu.com, IG idahocentralcu, FB Idaho Central Credit Union
Bridal by Marie, Owner Susan Ballard
Upscale Bridal Boutique in Eagle, Idaho
The insights and reflections are vast and profound, but the most important one is seeing how this pandemic has emotionally affected my customers. Who would have ever thought that a pandemic would alter one of the most important days in a couples’ life? Plans change by the week, guest lists have to be adjusted, venues changed, destination weddings cancelled, and the wedding that was being planned for perhaps a year or more is suddenly not the one envisioned. I not only can empathize with my customers, but I feel their sorrow, frustration and disappointment, because I, too, have had to postpone my own wedding that was planned for September 2020.
One of the most positive consequences as a business owner is the feeling of community and the sense of support within the wedding industry. We are all affected by this pandemic: floral designers, DJs, musicians, bands, photographers, videographers, stylists, planners, the list goes on and on. We’re all in the same boat and understand the challenges faced with a profound adjustment in cash flow when weddings are being postponed and/or cancelled. In addition, I am most appreciative and thankful to my vendors who are very understanding and sympathetic to me being a small business owner.
www.bridalbymarie.com, IG bridalbymarie, FB Bridal by Marie in Eagle
Roost Gift and Home, Owner Laurel Meyer
Serving the Treasure Valley Community, and beyond, for all of their gifting needs. Also providing the community with a selection of the latest in seasonal, and home accent trends.
Since the pandemic, folks are spending more time at home, and have enjoyed purchases that enhance and update their home space, as well as indulging in candles, home fragrance, and bath and body products, to enjoy at home.
We used our time during the pandemic closure, to create and implement a brand-new shopping website where our customers can shop online, and pick-up curbside. We have always had this goal and the pandemic gave us the time, and the need to prioritize it.
www.roostcollection.com, IG roostgiftandhome, FB Roost Gift and Home
