(Photo: Google Maps)
Glass Magick, a French Quarter boutique gift shop specializing in glassware made by local artists, announced that it is permanently closing due to COVID-19 restrictions.
The store announced its closure on social media July 28.
“Everyone has been going through some of the toughest trials these past few months, and it does factor into my decision, but, truth be told….I am looking forward to being retired and letting go of some of my full time responsibilities,” according to the shop’s owner, who wished to not be identified.
The shop, located at 713 Toulouse St., sold glassware and jewelry on consignment from local artists and also featured readings by psychics.
The store initially closed in late March as the first round of coronavirus restrictions went into place and reopened after restrictions were loosened in June, although business since then has been extremely sparse, the owner said.
Coupled with sharp drop in business stemming from the restrictions, including contact tracing requirements, the shop’s owner wasn’t able to cut a deal with the landlord and will close its doors on Sept. 1.
The owner also blamed a widespread refusal to wear masks, which she said is contributing to the rise in coronavirus cases across New Orleans.
“They need to be a little bit more stringent with wearing masks,” the owner said. “The reason it’s spreading is because there’s no social distancing and no masks.
“Everyone gives you crap because they don’t want to wear a mask,” the owner said.
Glass Magick operated for 27 years, according to the owner, including 14 years on Toulouse Street, opening Labor Day weekend in 2006. The shop was brought to New Orleans from the owner’s native region of the U.S., where she will move back to retire.
Port of Call briefly opens, abruptly closes; promises to reopen