Many small businesses showcased in Harrisburg were birthed during the pandemic - PennLive

Vendors ranging from interior decorators to jewelry makers and clothing designers showcased their products under cloudy but dry skies at Harrisburg’s Italian Lake Saturday.

Small Business Saturday HBG showcased creatives and nonprofits from all backgrounds and provided a space for the public to learn more about their mission and products. Ashley Smith has been organizing such events on a monthly basis since last August.

“I love meeting all these people,” Smith said. “It’s so important for the community to focus on small local businesses. That’s why I don’t have entertainment at my events, because people tend to stay in one space rather than walk around.”

Just like Smith, many of the vendors at the event birthed their businesses in the midst of COVID-19. When asked, most said that although the pandemic was devastating to the United States and its economy, it really spurred a wave of creativity and inspiration. People finally had time to put effort into their hobbies and their passions, turning them into money-making propositions at a time when, for many, their full-time jobs were unstable.

Janae George, for example, is the mind behind Décor At Your Door, which specializes in home décor and interior design consultation. Before the pandemic, her full-time job would not allow the sacrifice of time needed to start her own business. But when COVID-19 happened, she was able to pursue her passion.

There were businesses taking part Saturday that were created because their owners’ foud their full-time jobs no longer served their purpose. That was the case with N’Ve Naturals. The owner, who identified herself as Lyvette, said she worked for a hair salon when the pandemic hit and salons were shut down. With time on her hands, she started researching what products worked best for natural hair, and decided to create her own line of products.

Small Business Saturdays also allowed budding business owners the opportunity to collaborate, discuss, and find inspiration from fellow entrepreneurs.

Small Business Saturday will take place again on July 17 at Italian Lake. While Smith said she hopes to have a website by the end of summer, anyone wanting to participate can find information on how to do so at the “Small Business Saturdays HBG” Facebook page.