In December 2020, amidst the challenges of the pandemic, Pinspired Art Souvenirs transitioned from being solely an online shop to opening its first physical store.
The journey wasn’t easy — we had originally planned to launch earlier that year, but the pandemic delayed our plans. Thankfully, Dakong Balay, a historic building in the heart of Dumaguete City, allowed us to patiently wait for the right time to begin.
We are incredibly grateful for the opportunity to set up shop in Dakong Balay, a location rich in history and culture, situated right across the bustling Boulevard. This venue not only provided us with a beautiful and central location but also played a crucial role in helping us survive during those challenging times.
Our collaboration with local artist Hersley Casero was another key factor in our survival and success. Hersley, known for his work as an artist and street photographer, joined us for a simultaneous art exhibition titled "Organic Magic," which opened on the same day as our store.
Hosting an event during the pandemic came with uncertainties and restrictions —social distancing, masks, and limited capacity. Yet, the support we received from our community was overwhelming. Numerous guests came to celebrate with us, making the opening day both safe and memorable.
The art exhibition was made possible by Dakong Balay, which generously provided us with a venue. While the space wasn’t occupied by tenants, we were able to use the hall, which offered an elegant backdrop for showcasing Hersley’s artworks. Having the exhibition alongside our store opening was a dream come true, and we were thrilled to share this milestone with our supporters.
Looking back, December 2020 marked not just the start of our physical store but also the resilience of local art and business during tough times. We are deeply thankful to everyone who supported us on this journey.
