Open throughout renovation!

23rd of June, 2020

Who ever thought 2020 would come with such challenges?

The lockdown saw Inspirations closed for seven weeks, and then, as soon as we were preparing to get back to work we learnt that the earthquake strengthening and renovation work was about to begin! 

We moved from restful lockdown into hurriedly packing up half the shop and putting it into storage. We were exhausted within the first day, but the sooner we could get this done, the sooner the builders could start work, and the sooner it would all be finished!

Inspirations will be open throughout the process, but we are now only half the size. Back, almost, to the size of the shop when it first opened! It is, however, hard to get used to the shop being so much smaller. It is estimated that it will take three months to complete the work on the back half of the shop. Once that is done we will move into that half whilst they begin work on the front half. Estimated completion is November, but we are hoping for sooner than that!

So what will happen in November? Will we reopen as if nothing had happened?

No.

After the lockdown, and after having to pack up half the shop, an idea arose, inspired by looking at our situation with a different viewpoint: Within every adversity lies the seed of opportunity. This little seed of an idea has grown into something that we are all very excited about. It is a new way forward! There is a lot of planning, and work to be done, and we can’t tell you about it yet (it’s a secret!!!), but trust us, you will love it!

To all of our customers, a huge thanks for your support since we re-opened. It was so great to reconnect with everyone and find out how everyone had coped. Robyn asked one family (Mum, Dad and a teenage son), “How was your self isolation time?" and the father replied “Spiritually transforming!” Bingo! He understood the gift within the lockdown. Many more stories of growth, of strengthened family dynamics, of peace, of simplicity of life, were shared. It was inspiring how many people came out of it with new priorities. Life became simpler for many people, and that way of life has continued. Yes, there were some who have lost jobs, and yet they had a positive attitude and lots of faith in their future. Some were grateful for the loss of job as it had pushed them to follow their dreams! Another case of the seed of opportunity liying within adversity.

Anyway, just wanted to touch base, and assure you all that we are going to be open through all the strengthening and renovation work, and that we have exciting plans for the future!!! Don't be concerned by the plywood covered windows on one half, or the scaffolding. It's all part of the journey forward!!

YES, WE ARE OPEN! AND WILL BE THROUGHOUT THE WHOLE PROCESS!!