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December 3, 2020

Virtual marketplace launches to help women-owned businesses

Photo | Contributed Ornaments for sale at Glaze Handmade, a Stonington store spotlighted on the newly launched virtual marketplace.
By Michelle Tuccitto Sullo

Holiday shoppers can buy gifts online while simultaneously supporting Connecticut businesses owned by women.

The Women’s Business Development Council recently launched a virtual marketplace on its website, where visitors can shop for gifts in several categories: fashion, food, jewelry, professional services, wellness, beauty, specialty products and home decor. 

The goal is to not only help the council’s clients thrive, but to provide a way for people to shop safely online during the coronavirus pandemic. 

More than 50 women-owned Connecticut businesses are participating in the virtual marketplace. The Mystic Sweet Shop, Connecticut Cookie Company of Fairfield, Enchanted Jewelry of Plainfield, Salt Cave of Darien, and Total Advantage Massage of Stamford are just a few examples. 

Several of the businesses have special holiday gift baskets available for sale. 

Lt. Governor Susan Bysiewicz said consumers who shop at small businesses during the holidays and throughout the year can give them a much-needed boost.

Bysiewicz noted how many businesses have had to shift to an online retail platform and make changes to ensure customers can shop safely. 

“Shopping small online is the easiest way to protect the health and safety of you and your loved ones while still contributing to the vibrancy of your community,” Bysiewicz said. “I am so excited that the Women’s Business Development Council has launched its virtual marketplace, making it easy for consumers to find their favorite local retailer’s online store.” 

Council President and CEO Fran Pastore said it has staged holiday pop-ups in empty retail storefronts in the past, but with the pandemic, her team came up with the idea of providing a virtual space instead.

The goal is to help drive new consumers to the businesses, according to Pastore, who called it a “great marketing opportunity” for participants.

In addition to the virtual marketplace, the council can also assist business owners through grant and childcare programs, she said.

Lakisher Hurst of East Hartford, owner of Sassy Black Yarns, a five-month old online-only business, is among those featured on the website. Her business sells hand-dyed yarns in a variety of colors, and Hurst is hopeful the virtual marketplace will help her sell even more.

“People are doing everything online nowadays,” Hurst said. “I am happy to be here, even in the face of adversity. I have had a love of yarn for years, and it made sense to go into business.”

Lyndsay Dean, owner of Glaze Handmade in Stonington, has been a potter for 25 years and in business since 2002. Her shop is open to foot traffic, but she said in-person visits have been down.

“(The council) has been instrumental during the pandemic,” Dean said. “Online sales have helped.”

The nonprofit council works to support economic prosperity for women, and helps with starting and growing businesses, including through training, financial education, and providing technical assistance to those seeking access to capital. 

Visit the virtual marketplace HERE, and visit the council’s main website for more information HERE. 

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