May 11, 2009

A great day to shop in Gibson CountyBy Lydia Kay FerreeJacksonSun.com

Humboldt, Milan and Trenton have been aggressive in their pursuit of specialty retail shops. Retail recruitment is a priority of the chambers in each town.

In Humboldt the Chamber of Commerce has initiated a campaign called “Shop Humboldt First!,” which is stressing the importance of businesses promoting signature merchandise.

Crooked Tree is one such example in Humboldt. Rita and Larry Shelton moved to Humboldt, Rita’s hometown, from Oklahoma a short time ago. Their new shop, located at 110 North 14th Ave., specializes in backyard nature supplies like homemade bird feeders and bird houses; merchandise for squirrels, butterflies and cats; animal houses; children’s nature books, puzzles, videos and CDs.

Another new shop — Designer Duds — is located in The Abbey on Main at 1424 Main St. Owners Sharon Herndon and Carol Sikes opened their consignment clothing shop Jan. 15.

“We’re trying to have upscale, name-brand products,” Herndon said. “Some still have tags and have never been worn. We check really closely.”

Two features put Designer Duds in a category separate from other local consignment stores — men’s clothes and formal wear.

Other shops worth visiting in Humboldt include the retail shop in the Crown Winery (fine pottery and the like), which is scheduled to open May 2; Robin’s Nest Antiques; Brasfield’s Jewelers; Peppermint Pony children’s shop ; and the shops on “Discount Row”: Simmons Shoe Store and Humboldt Home Fashions (drapery and bedding).

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