New Columbia business opens amid COVID-19 pandemic

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

A new Columbia business, Sawdust Studios, officially opened on July 15 as the COVID-19 pandemic continues in Mid-Missouri and around the world.

Co-owners John Walters and Cruz Chavez originally planned to open up in May until coronavirus changed their plan.

"It takes a lot of work to start a business, but now how does coronavirus play into this, how will it affect us as a small business going forward," Walters said.

The setbacks from COVID-19 have made it hard for Walters and Chavez to get the word out about their business.

"It's not going exactly how we planned because when we dreamt this up it was pre-COVID-19, we are just optimistic that once people will find out about it and have been stuck at home they will be willing to come and try something new," Chavez said.

On Aug. 1, Sawdust Studios will have an open house from 1-4 p.m. where people can take a tour of the studio, and get to know the business.

It's a way for Walters and Chavez to spread the word about their start-up in order to survive this pandemic.

"We are nervously optimistic," Chavez said.