Its no secret what makes St. Petersburg special.

Its all these small mom and pop shops and businesses, said Rachel Clark from Shoreline Sugars Boutique.

WATCH: Tampa Bay 28's Larissa Scott finds out what's happening with local businesses in St. Pete

But its not just any small business.

Funky little independent shops, said Kelly Rodriguez-Laureano, managing partner of Lolitas Wine Market.

And theyre specific to this city.

Theres not another mix just like it anywhere else wherever you travel, said Michelle Whiting, co-founder of Hostess.

Theyre all a close-knit community, thats what makes whats been happening in St. Pete lately especially disheartening.

Weve had more than a few businesses close, said Clark.

When you see firsthand people that you know and love, not able to make it, i

See Full Page