As a vendor at Lucky Day Emporium, in Valrico, for almost a year, Stacy Carpenter learned all about the antique business. So, when Lucky Day closed and was demolished to make room for a gas station, Carpenter thought about starting her own business. Plant City proved to be a prime spot for her new store, Kindred Spirit.
Located at 4288 U.S. 92 W., Suite 6, Kindred Spirit sells everything from antiques to vintage collectibles to even modern re-purposed furniture. A shopper can find anything, from low-cost trinkets to higher-end, one-of-a-kind pieces.
“It was kind of a cloud when the emporium closed, but it was wonderful, because a space opened up next to my dad’s business,” Carpenter said. “I’m just so excited. I want everyone to be a big family and have everyone come out.”
Carpenter has six large vendors in her store and two smaller ones — all Lucky Day transplants. After the emporium closed, she called its vendors to gage their interest in a new store. They were supportive of Carpenter’s endeavor.
Pish Posh Boutique specializes in refreshed furniture, giving old and modern furniture a new life and look.
Lin Trimble’s booth is full of mid-century trinkets. She has a special interest in merchandise from the 1950s to the 1970s.
With a clever name, Junk and Disorderly is all about the antiques.
Melanie from Bentley has refurbished and handmade merchandise. She also specializes in interior design and restaging.
Lynne Gillies works on tatted jewelry. Her crocheted designs are inspired from vintage eras.
The booth, Write Turnz, is aptly named. Here, shoppers can buy unique pens made from different materials, such as driftwood.
Carpenter’s own space is in the front of the 800-square-foot retail floor. She has a lot of refurbished and re-purposed furniture as well as other vintage merchandise.
“I really feel empowered,” Carpenter said about opening her own store. “When this opportunity came up, I feel like it gave me life again.”
Carpenter and her vendors held a grand opening May 18. Parkesdale Farm Market donated some fresh fruit, and Keel and Curley Winery donated two bottles of blueberry wine for shoppers to taste while they browsed.
Carpenter, who grew up in Seffner, is moving to Plant City to be close to her store.
“People here have just been wonderful,” Carpenter said. “They are just really supportive here.”
Contact Amber Jurgensen at ajurgensen@plantcityobserver.com.
BASICS
ADDRESS: 4288 U.S. 92 W., Suite 6
PHONE: (813) 644-0920
HOURS: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Thursdays through Saturdayshttp://xn--80akebsdglb4b1je.xn--p1ai/poluchenie-zayma-1.php