Stephanie Swaim, owner and operator of Hoot and Howl, stands in her storefront in Morgantown, West Virginia, on Friday, Oct. 2, 2020. Swaim first opened her artisan shop to the public back in 2008. Her goal then and now is to showcase the work of over 120 West Virginia and American made artisans and small businesses. 
A sign outside of Hoot and Howl reads “shop online anytime” in Morgantown, West Virginia, on Friday, Oct. 2, 2020. Swaim began to question how she could continue to support local artisans after West Virginia Governor Jim Justice issued an executive order mandating quarantine. According to Swaim, she immediately transitioned to an online format in hope to continue business. 
Swaim speaks to a customer as she makes a purchase in Morgantown, West Virginia, on Friday, Oct. 2, 2020. After opening back up to the public, Swaim began to establish in-person connections again, which she believes are important for small business owners. 
Swaim stocks shelves in her store with cards made by local artisans in Morgantown, West Virginia, on Friday, Oct. 2, 2020. According to the business owner, many artists, including herself, faced creative challenges in light of the pandemic. Swaim noted many artists are beginning to create again and her store offers resources to for creators in need. 
Swaim checks inventory on her laptop at Hoot and Howl in Morgantown, West Virginia, on Friday, Oct. 2, 2020. Customers now have the option to shop in-store, order online or request an in-store pickup. Swaim hopes to remain open for the remainder of the pandemic.
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TRENTON STRAIGHT 