When Bishnu Subedi, local entrepreneur, opened up Pretty Threading in Central Mall late last year, he had no way of knowing what an interesting year awaited him in 2020.
"I'm a partner in Taste of India and I run this business with my wife who handles the skilled techniques and the day-to-day management," he said. "We went with a slow, quiet opening, to let Texarkana gradually discover us."
Then in March, COVID-19 hit and Central Mall shut down, as did Pretty Threading.
"We stayed closed until the Mall re-opened," he said. "But as we have opened, we've stuck with our original strategy, except with masks and social distancing, of course."
Normally, there is more seating, both for waiting and working in Pretty Threading. Right now, much of it is stored in the back of the salon, awaiting being redeployed back into the floor space. The customers still come seeking the service, however.
"This is about eyebrow care, threading," he said. "This is eyebrow styling, where we go for an artistic approach, no chemicals involved."
He notes the business mostly appeals to a female clientele, but they do have a few males who seek their services. Those who ply this trade don't require formal training.
"We have a business license, but that's about it in this trade," he said. "Minakashi Paudel, my wife, is the one who handles the customers and the day-to=day management," he said.
So they continue getting their business going again.
"We are just welcoming our customers back as we get back on our feet," he said. "We love this city, Texarkana, and our customers. And we ask you all to stay
safe."