Retailer Profiles

Beverly Noyes-Hanson was dabbling in picture framing and searching for a different job when her husband suggested she start a frame and gift shop.

In an Upper Midwest com­munity, Beth Pusel has been choosing just the right mix of merchandise for her customers for almost 30 years.

Ede Votta was returning from a job interview when she saw a “For Rent” sign in the window of a small retail space and decided to take a leap of faith and open a gift shop.

Starting her own business was always on Sheryol Threewit’s bucket list, and she crossed that one off when she opened All Things Beautiful Gift Boutique.

Melissa Foster loves people and always wanted to own a retail store where people could walk in and receive what she describes as “medicine for the soul.”

Alison opened Green Springs in Seneca, South Carolina, in the fall of 2009.

When Brigid Beaubien opened Urbanum in Detroit’s New Center neighborhood, it was one of a cou­ple small businesses on the block.