(KGTV) -- Local businesses struggle to survive as the pandemic drags on, and more restrictions are expected across San Diego county.
Farideh Sandahl opened Blusandz boutique on Cedros Avenue in Solana Beach in 2017. Last week, she shut her doors for good.
"Heartbreaking, frustrating, it felt like a relief, as well," said Sandahl.
Sandahl said they made it through the initial shut down in March, but when COVID-19 cases surged in the summer, they couldn't recoup their losses.
"After the fourth of July, things just dropped. It was like a ghost-town," said Sandahl.
The Design District on Cedros Avenue is home to dozens of unique shops, restaurants, and coffee shops. Before the pandemic hit, the business owners were holding monthly outdoor strolls with live music.
"Leaping Lotus and The Belly Up, they were our lifeline. They were like the places to go," said Sandahl.
The Belly Up is currently holding shows online, and Lotus, formerly known as Leaping Lotus, closed in June.
"With COVID, it really killed that area," said Sandahl.
A few doors down, Caravan West and Curve Couture are advertising going out of business sales.
Sandahl says she'll continue working in the fashion industry.
"When I see people wear the clothes outside of my boutique, I was like oh, I sold that to them!"
She'll still sell her clothes on her website blusandz.com [blusandz.com]
"I learned, I learned what not to do, I learned what to do, and I've learned to continue with your head up and your tunnel vision on your goal," said Sandahl.
