Miami Valley businesses stay connected with customers during the pandemic by embracing new ideas

Dayton has long been known for its creativity and innovation. And this has never been more apparent than right now, as the world continues to navigate through the COVID-19 global pandemic. While many small businesses have closed for good due to lost revenue, many here in Dayton are not only surviving but thriving.

Though it may seem that during a time of cancelled events a DJ and photobooth service would be struggling, Jay Nigro, owner of LiftOff Entertainment in Dayton is experiencing a steady flow of business due to his ability to innovate.

“We have continued to evolve and add new products during the pandemic,” Nigro says. “We have taken music BINGO and trivia virtual and we offer backyard movies on a large inflatable screen, bringing the drive-in feel home.”

Since gathering in large groups is banned, Raise Your Brush, a paint and party business, has taken “an about face.” Owner Laura Carter says class capacity has been cut in half and she is now offering virtual classes as well as home party kits with contactless pickup.

“We still have in person classes, but we encourage private parties with people you know,” Carter says.

Last March, just three days before most businesses were ordered closed, Chris Dimmick opened Tender Mercy, a new cocktail bar in downtown Dayton. Dimmick had to scramble to adjust to the “new normal,” and immediately transitioned his business to “Mercy Mart,” offering all the essentials and cocktails to go. Though the bar is now open at reduced capacity, Dimmick says they continue to rely on “to go” cocktails as a major revenue stream.