STORES REOPEN ACROSS KY

STORES REOPEN ACROSS KY

Today-- may 20th-- is a day a lot of kentucky businesses owners circled on their calendars weeks ago and now that... re-opening day is here-- 44news reporter joylyn bukovac is live from owensboro with what shoppers can expect as retail returns retailers aren't the only ones who've been looking forward to this day.

Shoppers are using this an occasion to ditch the sweat pants they've been living in during quarantine.

"it's been 8 weeks today since we've been closed so we are excited about reopening."

Natasha stanley opened bella ragazza boutique in owensboro 7 years ago.

She says even though they were forced to close their store-- even the stay at home orders didn't keep their customers away.

"women love to shop.

A pandemic doesn't get us down when it comes to that."

They altered their business-- offering free shipping, curbside pickup, and porch delivery.

"we are still offering a lot of those services now too to help people that maybe aren't as comfortable.

We are just here to bring happiness and joy to people during this time."

Business did slow down--as our day to day lives shifted.

"i do think the cancellation of events is kind of what really hurt us.

They kentucky derby, and easter, and mother's day and graduation."

Now we can breathe a sigh of relief as the economy opens up-- with caution.

"we are of course cleaning everything that we can.

We are wiping everything down.

We have a new credit card machine so there's no contact with that situation.

We are going to be emailing receipts to our guests."

All of these precautions are in place so we can practice social distancing while shopping-- the rules in kentucky say businesses like this one can be open at one third of pre-covid19 capacity.

There will also be hand sanitizer available so customers can keep their hands clean while hunting for their new favorite finds.

Staley is relieved to finally catch up with her customers after these long two months.

"having to do the shipments and stuff that's been great and i love the support but i want to see their faces.

I want to have those conversations.

Everyday these women inspire me and i'm excited to get them back in the stores."

.

Youl notice retail store owners and their employees will be wearing masks for your protection.

Shoppers are highly recommended to wear masks too.

Reporting live in owensboro jb 44news.

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