West Coast Silver Company recently opened it's doors for business in downtown San Luis Obispo, but the first day of business was in the midst of a pandemic.
Brooke McCrystal, West Coast Silver Company store manager, said she is already seeing sales tank lower than expected.
"It's definitely been slower than normal because before we even opened we had so many people wanting to come in when we weren't even ready yet," Brooke McCrystal said.
The McCrystals said they support the precautionary measures health officials are implementing, but also realize the virus will impact business in downtown San Luis Obispo.
"I just think everyone still needs to come out and just be together and keep a healthy distance as well," said Matt McCrystal, West Coast Silver Company store manager.
Local shoppers and tourists shared a similar sentiment.
"It is the same when we had the recession," said Katie Girgus who is visiting from the Bay Area. "People need to spend money so that we keep everything going, so we are actually doing a really big part here."
Beth Strutz, a public health Cal Poly Undergraduate, said she will not be hitting the bars this weekend for St. Patrick's Day festivities and instead will be holding her own smaller gathering in response to COVID-19.
"It is going to be pretty small, but I think a couple of the people coming are coming because they know the bars aren't really a safe option right now," said Strutz.
Those who have gone to the bars however, said they are glad to see food industry employees taking extra precautions.
Business owners said they will have to wait and see what the next few weeks bring, but are hoping a lot of the fear and worry surrounding the coronavirus diminishes.
