I Started a Small Business in a Global Pandemic

Call me crazy, you wouldn't be wrong. I do think I am crazy for doing this but that's why I'm also excited. A little chaos keeps it interesting. The truth is the village cinema feels like exactly what I should be doing right now. 

If you don't already know me, my name is Sydney. I'm a filmmaker from the sunshine state currently living in Los Angeles, California. I love movies and television shows. I came to Los Angeles with a dream to write and direct movies and television shows and I am still working on that dream. It has morphed over the years into different things it's pivoted and developed. One dream I've always had is to start my own business. 

In March I was working as a production assistant and a waitress. I was working really hard long days. My screenplay sat on my computer patiently waiting for my attention. I specifically remember thinking if only I could have like a one week staycation so I can get done all the creative projects I need to do. Be careful what you wish for because that staycation turned into a 5 month long quarantine (that is still going!!). When the shelter in place was ordered I felt -- and I am ashamed to say this because I don't want anyone to think that the pandemic hasn't been difficult on me (it has) or that I don't comprehend the severity of this time. But I felt, relieved. Cringe. I know. What I thought would be a two week time with no distractions to finish my screenplay, to finish editing my friend's book, to create with no responsibilities and no social engagements felt really freeing at the time. In my defense, I thought it would only be 2 weeks. I was going to make the most of it. 

I asked myself, why do I feel this way? This is just wrong. I was stuck and the quarantine and unemployment gave me an opportunity to get unstuck (well, here’s hoping). There would never be another time in my life to take a chance like this to start something new. I took it. I researched a ton before I ever thought seriously that I myself could start a small business. Slowly over the past couple of months I got my ducks in a row. I saw visuals constantly in my dreams and in quiet moments of my day of what I wanted the shop to look like, the tone, the themes, the products. 

So I started a small business in the middle of a global pandemic. Trying to make lemonade out of a few too many rotten lemons this year has handed us. I am happy and ok if it doesn't turn into much of anything because it has brought me joy during this uncertain scary time. I am proud of myself for taking a chance on me. I hope you enjoy this shop it was made with lots of love and dreams. 

Virtual hugs xo

Sydney