Editor’s Note: Anderson SC Living is partnering with Rettew Creative to expand the audience for Storefront Stories as area businesses continue to rebuild from COVID-19. Bobby Rettew and digital media students from Anderson University’s Communications program recorded the first Storefront Story on April 22, 2021, and since have captured the experiences of almost 30 downtown businesses. Look for a Storefront Story every Wednesday here at Anderson SC Living.
Belle Beauty had just opened in downtown Anderson when the coronavirus pandemic hit, affecting the livelihoods of nine stylists who had come on board.
“I do feel like it’s been a roller coaster because we had just opened and kind of gotten comfortable, said Belle Beauty Owner Jessica Zirkelbach. “Then Covid hit and we were forced to close for seven weeks.”
Woman owned and operated, Belle Beauty is home to several independent business owners who are hair stylists and makeup artists. The hair and body salon also features a boutique offering skincare and makeup products and clothing.
Despite being closed for almost two months, Belle Beauty has bounced back from the shutdown, helped by a community that rallied around small business owners and buy local, Zirkelbach said.
Belle Beauty, 109 N. Main Street, Anderson SC 29621, shopbellebeuty.com.
This video story was crafted and produced by digital media students from Anderson University’s Communication Program. As an Assistant Professor of Communication and owner of Rettew Creative, Bobby Rettew led a team of students in the COM 351 Corporate Video Production class to create these stories.
This project provided a unique opportunity where students were able to leverage their technical video production skills along with enhancing their soft skills by interacting with clients and connecting with the downtown Anderson business community.
Anderson University Production Team: Grace Nicklas: Producer/Camera Operator; Grace Ann Vargo: Producer/Camera Operator; and Micaela Jack: Producer/Editor.
