Business Update

To my followers, supporters, and potential clients:

As you know, non-essential businesses were ordered shut down by the State of New Jersey in mid-March. Many business owners, including myself, continued to cover overhead to retain their retail spaces, employees, and purchase much needed inventory for selling whatever we could in an attempt to keep our businesses alive. Despite those efforts, not being able to perform my principal business activity has reduced revenue by 98%. My business did not qualify for a PPP loan and it did not receive EIDL aid. I have received no help from the CARES Act.

As I sat and watched all kinds of businesses re-open, mine remained in the category of businesses that would have to remain closed until further notice. With very little revenue and the expectation from my retail landlord to cover the rent, I had to make the unfortunate decision to vacate the space.

In August I took some time off to catch my breath after a grueling 6 months of trying to survive. I watched the changes happening with schools and businesses, and put a lot of thought into what to do about My Little Party Place (the place without a place!). I need to get back to work, but with schools going virtual and, well, COVID… it’s hard to imagine my in-person children’s party business bouncing back before 2022. If you’re thinking, "more like 2023", I can’t say I disagree.

That all said, this creative planner isn’t giving up! We've celebrated some in-person parties that offer some of the same personal touches that My Little Party Place is known for, but with the cold weather upon us, these outdoor celebrations have come to a halt. We're now focusing our efforts on virtual parties, and on offering gift baskets for all occasions starting late November.

So STAY TUNED as I work on the bounce back! To my family, friends, and clients who helped me get through the last few months, thank you for believing in me since day 1. You helped me build My Little Party Place up to the level of success I have striven so hard for. I’m hanging on for me, but I’m hanging on for all of you, too.

Marisa