Rebuilding in the Face of Crisis: A Small Business Owner's Journey
Each unemployment claim, furlough notice, and closed business is a personal story waiting to be told. As the pandemic continues to impact lives and livelihoods, we are dedicated to sharing the real experiences of individuals navigating through these tough times—how they have adapted, what lessons they have learned, and how they are moving forward. One industry hit hard by COVID-19 is hospitality and service, especially in bustling New York City. Hundreds of bar and restaurant owners have faced the tough decision to either permanently close their doors or navigate strict reopening guidelines. Julie Reiner, a 49-year-old craft mixology pioneer and co-owner of Brooklyn bars Clover Club and Leyenda, is among those in the latter group.
After months of closure, Reiner and her partners braved the challenges of reopening under stringent NYC regulations, wearing multiple hats to keep their businesses afloat. In a candid interview with The Balance, Reiner shared her journey—from the initial shutdown and staffing dilemmas to discovering new creative outlets during the pandemic. Here is an excerpt of her insights and experiences:
Anticipating the Unthinkable: A Rapid Shutdown
As the crisis rapidly escalated, Reiner and her team found themselves facing an unexpected closure. Despite initial discussions about safety measures, the reality of shutting down hit them suddenly. Reflecting on the turn of events, Reiner admitted to being blindsided by the speed at which everything unfolded. Thanks to a forward-thinking business partner who had prepared financially for a worst-case scenario, the business had a financial cushion to weather the storm.
Navigating the Unknowns: Staffing and Support
When faced with uncertainty, Reiner prioritized her staff's well-being by encouraging them to access unemployment benefits promptly. While many opted to leave, those who stayed were kept afloat through inventive solutions like a GoFundMe campaign specifically aimed at supporting the kitchen staff. As the landscape evolved, Reiner and her team pivoted to offering to-go cocktails for pickup, adapting their operations to meet changing demands and safety requirements.
Adapting to New Norms: The Reopening Process
Reopening brought its own set of challenges, from staffing shortages to evolving safety regulations. Reiner found herself taking on unexpected roles, including waiting tables to fill the gaps left by departing staff members. Despite the hurdles, she emphasized the importance of the community's support and adherence to safety protocols. Looking ahead, Reiner is exploring innovative ways to engage customers, such as virtual cocktail classes and leveraging her expertise in crafting drinks at home.
Hope on the Horizon: Building Resilience
As the journey continues, Reiner remains hopeful for the future of her businesses. While facing financial strains and emotional lows, she draws strength from her passion for creating memorable experiences for her patrons. With a renewed focus on adaptation and creativity, Reiner is determined to weather the storm and emerge stronger on the other side.
