Oct 26, 2014

Talking Business: Crafts Specialist Transitions from Etsy to Downtown StoreBy Lyxan ToledanesTDN.com

Longview, WA – Years after establishing herself as an online entrepreneur, crafter Colleen Holten has made the leap to open her own store in downtown Longview.

Holten opened Neener’s Gift Shop, 1210 Maple St., in September, featuring her own intricately woven blankets and tablecloths alongside the handmade home wares of 16 other local crafters.

Each item — from jewelry and soap to quilts and furniture — is approved by Holten to form a carefully curated showcase inside the 2,500-square-foot space. It’s a level of quality unparalleled at chain stores, Holten said Thursday.

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