Updated 18/6/20
As you all know, these are unprecedented times, and we are all figuring it out as we go, as well as listening closely to advice from authorities as it develops and changes. Our little business is no exception, so we want to fill you in on our current measures to keep you safe.
First and foremost, we want to reassure you that the safety and wellbeing of our clients is, and has always been, our top priority. Between us, we have over 25 years experience running a small business and although this situation is a completely new one for the entire world, we hope that our commitment and dedication to what we do helps reassure you that you are in safe hands.
Secondly, we are so happy that a lot of our sessions are conducted outdoors! Fresh air and open spaces are super safe, and what better excuse to get out and have some fun with your loved ones.
Now, in terms of you coming to our premises… for those who haven’t been here before, please be reassured by the following information.
Our studio is a private space that is open to you by appointment only. Our cleaning procedures and other practices have been modified to ensure an extra level of safety of all our clients, especially for those who are more vulnerable to the threat of COVID-19 (coronavirus). These measures include:
- We are keeping our front door closed at all times. We have a doorbell and you can press it with your knuckle or elbow!
- We have plentiful hand sanitiser in the studio for us and our clients. We are using it multiple times a day and we encourage you to use it as soon as you enter our studio.
- We are sanitising all surfaces in our studio regularly every day (at minimum, in between each appointment), including door handles, seating, toys, artwork samples, EFTPOS terminals, iPads etc. Our shooting space is being sanitised and/or washed after each session including props,Ā blankets and wraps.
- We are supplying individual bottled water to clients rather than a jug and glasses. We are still making tea and coffee, and we won’t be offended if you decline, but we are taking every hygiene precaution possible to do this safely.
- We are practising ‘social distancing’, which means we are no longer shaking hands and giving kids high fives and we are refraining from touching you during sessions. The only exception to this is during newborn/baby sessions in the studio where it may be necessary, however this will be discussed with you when you arrive for your session and we have gloves for this situation if you prefer.
- Our bathroom facilities are private and the Belconnen Fresh Food Markets have also increased their cleaning procedures in our building in line with Department of Health advice.
- There is a maximum of only three of us in the studio on any given day.
- We have reduced the number of people coming into our studio by spacing out sessions more than usual, with fewer studio spots available.
- Our space also complies with the social distancing guidelines of 4 square metres per person. Our purchasing appointment room can have up to 5 people in it, and our studio can have up to 7 people.
- We ask that if you or your children are unwell you please call us immediately to reschedule your session or purchasing appointment. Likewise, if one of us falls ill, even if it’s just a head cold, we will immediately contact anyone who is booked in to reschedule.
If you need to reschedule your session:
We totally understand if you need to reschedule your session due to COVID-19 disruptions, such as self-isolation, or to keep vulnerable family members safe. Please let us know as soon as possible if this is the case and we will find you a new date and time that suits. There will be no penalties for anyone who needs to do this due to the current situation. If we reschedule you to a later date and we need to move it again, that is perfectly ok with us. We will honour any gift certificates, special offers and other promotions for the duration of the COVID-19 crisis.
Our business is going to take a hard hit from this situation, there is no doubt about that.
However, we are pressing on with what we do best right now, and remaining positive. And weĀ look forward to continuing to provide families with joyful experiences and memories over the coming months! Gosh knows we need it now, more than ever!
Warmest,
Katie & Jeremy (and the Heartstory Team)
