‘Business owners thrive on the energy of people.’ Lee’s Summit sale was safe success

Shop owners in Lee’s Summit found a way to allow those needing a bit of retail therapy to head downtown earlier this month.

Discounts and nice weather were a winning combination during a downtown Lee’s Summit sale, which included about 20 businesses.

The 15th Annual Downtown Lee’s Summit Sidewalk Sale was held a little later in the season, on Aug. 8, to give businesses time to prepare for the sale and follow new guidelines.

The essence of the sale remained the same, with participating businesses offering discounts and keeping most of the action outside, where the browsing was safer. The sale also allowed shops to clear out summer products to make room for new fall and holiday merchandise.

Customers followed COVID-19 protocol and wore masks, maintained distance and followed individual business rules, such as standing six feet apart during checkout and following arrows that directed traffic.

Elle & Em Boutique owner Rachel Roark Debelak enjoyed participating in the boutique’s Sidewalk Sale because it made her feel connected to the Lee’s Summit community, she said. She changed the layout of the store so shoppers could safely roam with social distancing in mind, while being able to enjoy the community aspect of the event, she said.

“As a shop owner it’s great to feel the store alive again,” Roark Debelak said. “Business owners thrive on the energy of people in their stores. We’re going into another uncertain shopping season with COVID-19, so it’s great to have sales and traffic right now, before new products come in.”

Katelyn Jones of Lee’s Summit said she was happy that downtown was able to make socially distanced adjustments to host the sale because she was looking forward to being able to be out and about, and she missed the feeling of normalcy, she said.

“I’m really glad that businesses are able to be so accommodating,” Jones said. “I’ve enjoyed this time out with my friends shopping, but we’re making sure to be aware of all these procedures.”

Xpressions Boutique owner Dara Huber was also in high spirits in her busy shop. Although the retail business has always maintained sanitation when showcasing their organic makeup and beauty products, they have modified their protocol to keep up with the times, Huber said.

“It’s great to see people out enjoying the day and the deals,” Huber said. “Having people roaming about the store makes me feel hopeful.”