SNL Star Marcello Hernandez’s Surprise Visit Brings Viral Attention to Struggling Peruvian Shop in Old Sacramento

Key points

• Marcello Hernandez visited Mi Tiendita Munaycha, a Peruvian shop in Old Sacramento, and danced with owner Jessy Flores, creating a viral video.
• Flores, who opened the shop over three years ago, has struggled to break even due to slow foot traffic and rising costs.
• Importing products from Peru has become significantly more expensive, with shipping fees increasing from $700 to $1,500.
• The viral video has led to new inquiries and orders, providing a temporary boost to the business.
• Flores plans to downsize to a shared space in Carmichael and seek additional employment to sustain her livelihood.

Background

This story highlights the ongoing challenges faced by small businesses in tourist-heavy areas like Old Sacramento, where rising costs and slow foot traffic can make it difficult to sustain operations. The viral attention from Hernandez's visit offers a temporary reprieve but does not resolve the underlying financial struggles.

Why it matters

The incident underscores the impact of viral moments on small businesses, providing temporary relief but not solving long-term financial issues. It also highlights the broader challenges faced by small business owners in maintaining operations amid rising costs and slow foot traffic.

What to watch

Flores plans to downsize to a shared space in Carmichael and seek additional employment to sustain her livelihood. The business may continue to benefit from the viral attention, but long-term sustainability remains uncertain.