The gates are open again after three months for a Brooklyn hairstylist as New York City begins Phase 2 of reopening. 

Iyesata Marsh has been a business owner for more than two decades and now has to adapt to a new way of operating because of the coronavirus pandemic. 

"I can't have people on top of each other. It has to be exactly 6 feet apart and one client after the other,” said Marsh. 

Social distancing markers are visible on the floor of Studio Phenomenon, to ensure safety. The client's temperature is also being taken at the door. 

Masks are also provided for those who may not have one. "Put it together. You gotta do it,” says Marsh. 

The Brooklyn hairstylist takes pride in being a Black female entrepreneur. She says she struggled to get financial assistance to get through the COVID-19 pandemic. 

 

Over the last few weeks, Marsh says her business was also affected by looting during protests near the Barclays Center. 

Marsh says her storefront was vandalized and had to be repainted. 

"For those people who are applying for these things, do not give up,” says Marsh. 

However, in light of reopening on Monday, Marsh celebrated with cupcakes and champagne. She says she wanted to bring a little joy after a tough couple of weeks.

"It was important for me to give back to my clients. It was important for me to give them something to celebrate,” says Marsh. 

Marsh hopes to be an example for other Black businesses, proving she’s able to reopen after a global crisis.