As Plant City heats up for the summer, several new shops have sprung up like flowers in Historic Downtown Plant City. From clothing boutiques to photography studios, the new shops add diversity to the community’s unique shopping district.
Kimeeruh’s Dream Closet Boutique and Kimeerah Furniture Design
Address: 102 S. Evers St. (doors on W. J. Arden Mays Boulevard)
Phone: (813) 650-7836
Hours: 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturdays; Mondays by appointment
Sitting side by side, Kimeeruh’s Dream Closet Boutique and Kimeerah Furniture Design are both owned by Tekeila and Steve Fox but have drastically different feels.
The Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting for both stores last week, but Kimeeruh’s Dream Closet Boutique has been up and running since April 6.
Kimeeruh’s Dream Closet Boutique carries accessories, shoes, clothing and more.
“It’s brand-new pieces, and there’s something for everyone,” Tekeila Fox said.
When Tekeila Fox lived in Georgia, she operated a business out of her house and specialized in interior design and custom furniture. When she moved to Plant City, she wanted to finally open her own store. Kimeerah Furniture Design offers furniture with an “old world feel,” as well as custom drapery, interior design, space planning, staging, custom furniture design, and moving and delivery services.
Valerie’s Attic
Address: 105 S. Collins St.
Phone: (813) 482-8985
Hours: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mondays through Saturdays; extended hours during monthly Bike Fest and Strawberry Classic Car Show events
After working at Stacy’s Consignment for years, Valerie DeArmond knew virtually all the minutia behind the consignment business. So, when the opportunity came to start her own shop, she jumped at the chance.
Valerie’s Attic opened in May and has been bustling with activity ever since. With 78 consigners and multiple vendors, the store carries everything from jewelry to antiques to DeArmond’s favorite — repurposed furniture.
“It’s eclectic,” DeArmond said. “Everybody can’t wait to see what new things are brought in.”
Vendors include Uniquely Me Jewelry; repurposed furniture from Cottage Palm Designs; decoupage art and furniture from Crazy Daisy; knickknacks and interior-design accessories from Mackazaak T’s Decor; jewelry from Heart Wear by Cheryl; and soaps and lotions from MeadowSweet Blossoms.
Not only is DeArmond known for her talent at carrying valued items, she also is quite the baker. Every Monday, she makes chocolate cupcakes and treats for her patrons.
The Herban Cowboy
Address: 114 W. Reynolds St.
Phone: (813) 704-1376
Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mondays through Saturdays
One sniff of delicious lavender wafting through the doors of The Herban Cowboy, and shoppers will be hooked. The store offers the latest and greatest in aromatherapy and herbs, as well as the trendiest jewelry, clothing and purses.
Owner Andrew Connell first started the store in 1997, at a different location and also owned a restaurant. He moved The Herban Cowboy in February to his new downtown location.
“A lot of my former customers have come back and love it,” Connell said. “There are quite a few people who are very knowledgeable in aromatherapy in Plant City.”
Now that the kindergarten teacher has more free time for summer break, Connell will be expanding his store hours. Connell plans to join the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce.
In addition to the store, Connell will also be offering “Girls Night In” services, through which the store will come to private homes for aromatherapy and clothing events.
MORE SHOPS
Studio 105
Address: 102 S. Evers St.
Phone: (813) 770-4031
Hours: Noon to 6 p.m. weekends; weekdays by appointment
About the shop: The new photography studio offers a variety of products, including portraits, custom invitations, and event planning for weddings, quinceañeras, graduations, birthdays and more.
Caring Hands Salon
Address: 102 S. Evers St.
Phone: (813) 716-1367
Hours: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturdays
About the shop: This new salon opened in March.
Royal Emporium Antiques
Address: 109 W. Reynolds St.
Phone: (813) 707-7177
Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mondays through Saturdays; open until 9 p.m. during Bike Fest and Strawberry Classic Car Show events
About the shop: The antique stored opened in January and carries a variety of unique items, including furniture, trinkets and even the occasional retro game machine.
Kasandra’s Boutique
Address: 118 W. Reynolds St.
Phone: (813) 704-4816
Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturdays
About the shop: The store, which opened in January, is stocked full of evening gowns, formal wear, jewelry and shoes.
