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Downtown Businesses Dominate "Best of Gaston" |
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The Business owners in Downtown Gastonia have lots to celebrate. Ten Businesses when selected as the Best of Gaston by the Gaston Gazette readers. To celebrate the success of each Business we will be highlighting two of the winners each month. Be part of the revitalization, and success of YOUR Downtown, support your local businesses. And the Winners are: |
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| GasPump Coffee Co. | ||||||||||||
| It's been over two years since Ella Freeman opened her Downtown Gastonia Coffee Company, and it just keeps getting better. Her quaint, friendly, comfortable shop invites people to stay and chat as they sip one of her premium brand coffees or teas. But that's not all. She has expanded her offerings to include ciders, different flavors, and more pastry snacks. The GasPump Coffee Co. is another one of our Downtown businesses that was voted "Best of Gaston 2010". When you walk down the fresh wooden stairs with the orange iron railings you can see why. In addition to her expansive collection of drinks and snacks she also offers local artisans space to show and sell their creations. Everything from wall art to jewelry to knitted scarves and necklaces grace the walls and shelves of the GasPump. When asked what has changed for Ella over the past two years she stops to think for a moment, and says, "I know more about coffee, and am learning more every day, I'm focused, comfortable in my business, and oh yeah...I'm pregnant and am expecting my first child in September." Lots of wonderful changes for a business and owner that took a chance and opened in Downtown Gastonia when few others would. The Facts: GasPump Coffee Co. Ella Freeman - Owner 167 W. Main Avenue Gastonia, NC 28052 www.gaspumpcoffee.com info@gaspumpcoffee.com Phone: 704-671-2067 Follow GasPumpcoffee on Facebook and Twitter @gaspumpcoffeeco |
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| Allison Pell - Architect - Best of Gaston Winner "The Bara Process" |
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| Allison Pell was in the 6th grade when he first remembers answering the question of what he wanted to be when he grew up with a definitive, "an Architect". How did he know? His grandmother told him. Allison's father was in the cotton industry and one day he brought home a cotton sorting table. It wasn't long before Allison took it over and created a Lego R /Lionel train/Matchbox car/paper/rock village. When his grandmother came to visit the first thing she said to him after seeing his creation was, "you should be an architect." When Allison was thirty years old he fulfilled that dream and was granted the title of Architect. He has worked as an architect for over 20 years, and truly enjoys the process of creating. When asked what makes a good architect he is quick to say, 1 - Talent, and 2 - having good listening skills. Talent he believes includes your DNA which is then nurtured to produce original, creative, and unique works of art. Yes architecture is closely related to art which is another reason Allison loves what he does. He's an artist as well. Recently he has expressed his artistic talents through photography, which he displays and sells in his renovated office. Allison's career has given him to opportunity to create both commercial and residential work. When he chose to venture out on his own in 1992 he decided to meld the two and focus on small commercial and residential historic up fits, and new and recreated residential homes. Thinking of renovating or building, then consult with Allison and The Bara Process, "The Best of Gaston 2010." The Facts: The Bara Process Allison Pell III AIA - Architect 167 West Main Avenue STE #130 Gastonia, NC 28052 a.pell@thebaraprocess.com www.thebaraprocess.com 704-607-0454 - cell |
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| Black Diamond A rare find in Downtown Gastonia |
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Seven years ago Steven L. Lowery left the car business and ventured out on his own. He opened a small shop in Downtown Gastonia and sold watches and jewelry. He did so well that he expanded his offerings to include clothing, and moved his budding business to Shelby. Now he's back. Coming home to his roots here in Gastonia, Steven has expanded his offerings once again to include "elegant and luxurious" apparel for working class people, including a wide selection of accessories, tuxedo rentals, alterations, and tailoring. In the month of May Steven opened the latest business to come to Downtown Gastonia, Black Diamond Apparel. Why "Black Diamond"? As Steven puts it, "because it's rare and unique", just like the apparel and accessories that he offers. His business is family owned and operated and Christian based. Stop in and see the unique designs Steven has to offer. Perhaps you'll find just what you're looking for. The Details: |
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| Sweet Slices Dabbles a Little Confection Downtown | ||||||||||||
Tiffany Steward has baking in her blood. Every since she was a little girl she has loved to bake. First she watched her two Aunts bake; now it's her turn. She has been baking cakes and sweets for friends and family for years, and it's those friends and family who have encouraged her to bring her gift of baking to the public. The Facts: |
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Downtown Art Crawl a Success for Downtown Gastonia |
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Thanks to all our volunteers, business owners, artists, and patrons for making this years Green Art Crawl a success. It was a beautiful evening to enjoy Downtown and the creative works of so many local artists. Remember to get your commemorative reusable EarthWeek bag for just $5 at the Organic Marketplace, or Bangz Salon and Spa. |
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The Greening of Gastonia Segways come Downtown |
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| The Gastonia Police Department is always looking for ways to improve. Especially if it's "free", "green", and increases their interaction with the public. The new Segway vehicles riding around Downtown and the surrounding areas fit the bill perfectly. The Police Department had already been exploring ways to get the officers out of their cars and onto the street more. Then the Department of Energy introduced a "green" grant the police department applied for and was granted. That grant gave them the funds needed to purchase the Segways, which became the key element of their public interaction and safety plan. Sergeant Mike Smith explains it this way when asked how the segways help Downtown, "They get the officers out of their cars, create a conversation with people, are easy to maneuver and are therefore excellent for large crowds, and are quietly electric." Well said...... |
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Carriage Company Moving Quickly to bring "Distinct Downtown Living" to Gastonia |
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It’s April, spring is everywhere, the animals, flowers and trees are awakening…. And so is Downtown Gastonia. It’s been a slow awakening, but with the latest renovation to one of our largest Downtown historic buildings, the Craig and Wilson building, the town is about to bloom. McAllister, the “obsessive constructive” power behind the renovation, is working with the City of Gastonia and the federal government to bring affordable distinct downtown living to the corner of Marietta Street and Main Avenue. They are introducing 16 newly built/renovated condominiums into the Craig and Wilson building. Each unit will have its own assigned parking space, access to the fitness facility, a beautifully landscaped private entrance and modern accoutrements. Visit their newly opened sales office on the corner of South Street and Main Avenue for complete details and sales information. Watch as the old horse and carriage facility is transformed into a beautiful mixed use property bringing new blood, ideas and neighbors to our “blooming” Downtown. |
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| Antiques Remain Downtown's Cornerstone | ||||||||||||
Katy-Did Antiques is a Downtown Gastonian icon. Kathy and Dennis Grinstead opened their antique store November 8th 2004 and were told over and over again that they wouldn’t last. But last they have and in doing so have helped bring people Downtown for 6 years. Kathy and Dennis agree that although they have less freedom owning their own business, they enjoy being their own boss. So far they have made great “Boss” decisions because they have succeeded in business where few others have. They do it by offering what people want. In addition to their antique and yard sale finds, they also have 25 booths that are rented and maintained by others, and approximately 100 consigners (but there’s always room for more). If you want to understand the full scope of what they offer you have to stop in and browse. Browsing weekly or monthly will allow you to see how often they get new items in. What if you’re hungry while shopping? They have you covered, they offer snacks of all sorts from bananas to ice cream. Looking for something special? Just ask, they just might have it hidden in one of the many rooms upstairs. Refreshed, that’s what both Kathy and Dennis feel when they have visitors both old and new. So stop by and take a look at what’s new at Katy-Did Antiques and Gifts, you’re sure to find something ”new”. What else is “new” Downtown? Across the street from Katy-Did Antiques and Gifts you will also find a relatively new antique/consignment store known as Bella La Fleur. They offer antiques, used, and repurposed items and consignment space. They too are always getting different items in to display and sell, so include a few minutes of your “browsing” for the “new” kid on the block. The Facts: Bella La Fleur |
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| Spindle City Cafe | ||||||||||||
Cole Witten, the brains and brawn behind the soon to open Spindle City Café, graduated from UNC Charlotte, but it was his new Gastonian bride that helped to spark his interest in Downtown Gastonia. Once he toured our Downtown, it was love at first sight. His vision was formulated immediately. He wanted to create a gathering place for people to eat, socialize, and relax. It helped that he had kitchen experience, and that he was tired of working for other people and wanted to be his own boss. In addition, finding the right venue for his vision was critical. When he was introduced to the Palmetto building he saw through the rubbish and rehab it needed to a warm, inviting, inspiring historic café that was thriving with people enjoying good food, atmosphere, art work, and free WIFI. Well his vision is almost ready to be realized. Within the next month Cole and his hard working family plan to open the doors of the Spindle City Café for all to enjoy. What might you find at the café? A little bit of everything good for you. Fresh soups, salads, and sandwiches, all of which are prepared just the way you want. What about atmosphere? You’ll enjoy uniquely styled tables, original ebony wood flooring, distressed walls, modern lighting, and glasswork by Chris Mills. It’s worth a trip to the café just to see the textile themed design, and while you’re there, enjoy a little breakfast, lunch or dinner. The Facts: Hours:
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| The Bottle Shoppe | ||||||||||||
Walk into The Bottle Shoppe at 174 West Main Avenue, and you can feel the Tuscan influence. The marblesque floor, golden yellow and burgundy walls, and “old county” furniture are as inviting as the smile that Margaret Mauney greets you with. Margaret’s idea to help revitalize Downtown with a valuable asset to the community was conceived in 2007, and this week will finally hatch, as the latest retail business to open Downtown, The Fine Wine and Bottle Shoppe. Located in the Historic building formerly home to the Diana Shops, The Bottle Shoppe’s warm old world atmosphere is enhanced by the bowstring truss ceiling construction, which expands and contacts depending on the temperature. Sitting under the “bowstring” you can enjoy a glass of wine at the wine bar, or browse the wine racks for your favorite wine. The amber filtered light of the crackled glass pendants creates the perfect wine sipping and browsing ambiance. If you don’t find what you’re looking for, you can consult with Margaret, who has taken several classes at Johnson and Wales University to ensure she is knowledgeable, and able to steer you in the right direction. In addition to fine wine, Margaret will also offer specialty beers; beers that are hard to find, are unique, refreshing, and interesting on the palette. The Bottle Shoppe will be hosting events, wine tastings, and will eventually offer outdoor seating, so stop by and visit your local specialty bottle shop, see what’s new. The Facts: Hours: Phone: 704-810-WINE |
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| Surge Marketing All businesses, if they want to succeed, need to “Grow, Promote, and Sell.” The latest business to find a home in Downtown Gastonia is perfectly poised to help your business do just that. Surge Marketing, the brainchild of Maribeth Jenkins, a former owner of the PR Store, offers traditional full service marketing assistance as well as sales and customer service training. As Maribeth sees it, “they’re all related, you need to “Grow your business, Promote it, and Sell it. Most of us are not natural “sellers”, so the training is very beneficial for all business types.” Located in the building that formerly housed the Junior League Bargain Box, Maribeth feels she has come full circle. As a youth she volunteered at the Bargain Box, and has always loved the building she now spends her working hours in. She said the building transformation was so dramatic that she didn’t even recognize it at first. “This was the first “space” I was shown and I knew it was the perfect fit for us; I didn’t need to look at any other buildings,” says Maribeth. When asked why she wanted to locate her marketing firm Downtown, she gives the answer that is heard most, “I loved the idea of being Downtown with all the positive energy.” In addition, being housed in a historic building with close to 100 years of stories, lives, and energy inspires creativity. All you have to do is visit Surge’s new office, and you realize what an easy decision it was for Maribeth to establish her firm here. In-direct sunlight filters through large four paneled windows and energizes the Surge office. The light, distressed brick walls and wood floors add to the rustic environment that is accented with modern accoutrements. All of which inspires creativity, and creates the “wow” factor most people are looking for in a marketing firm. But it’s not just the environment that creates that “wow” factor, Maribeth and her team have the experience and track record to set your business apart and take it to a new level. The Facts: Telephone: 704-867-2555 Owner: Maribeth Jenkins |
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Bella La Fleur Tracy and her partner are the proud owners of the latest “green business” to open Downtown, “Bella La Fleur”. They say “green” because they are helping to support one of the three main tenants of “green”- reuse. They have created a home décor consignment shopping experience unique to Downtown by combining shabby chic, romantic, traditional, and vintage styles in a floor plan that helps you explore and find your own style. Bella La Fleur has developed three keys to success for their business, which will also help their patrons enjoy and embrace decorating. First, they have designed their store to help inspire people’s creativity. As Tracy puts it, “We are selling a look.” By staging their goods in a beautiful and practical setting they hope it will help their patron’s explore new and different ways of decorating. This philosophy of “creating a look to help you find your style,” is the inspiration behind the display and creation of their three main rooms; the Elegant Classic look, the Shabby Chic room, and the Eclectic Kitchen. Second, they believe your home should make you feel good when you walk in. When you feel good at home because you’ve found and created your own style it becomes a haven for relaxation, creativity, and enjoyment. Third, they believe in affordability. They price their consignments in such a way that there is no need for the “big sale” sign. Because their pricing is fare and reasonable, the don’t need to discount their items, and you don’t have to wait to buy that perfect addition to your home. The Facts: Hours: |
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Curt Butler Studios What kind of studio? To describe it as it really is, a fine art, oil painting studio, doesn’t do it justice; it feels like so much more. And when Curt’s full plan for the space is in place, it will be. His goal is to create a working studio/gallery/workshop. Curt hadn’t really been looking for an art studio when Ella Childe, of the GasPump Coffee Co., stopped him on the street and asked him if he needed space to paint. She introduced Curt to the owner of the building, Allison Pell, and the rest is history. Curt completed his Masters Degree in Fine Art from the Savannah College of Art and Design in Georgia, while commuting to Charlotte for work in animation. But it wasn’t until he started working as a studio manager and teacher for Andy Braitman at his studio in Charlotte, that he found his niche. Curt gives Andy credit for helping him find his passion in art, and that’s when he started focusing on oil painting. Now, 12 years after starting his quest as an art major, Curt is a full time painter with a vision. He creates between 90 and 120 works a year, and plans to expand his portfolio with larger format paintings. When asked how he landed in Gastonia, he gives an often repeated explanation, “its half way between Shelby and Charlotte, my wife works in Shelby, and I worked in Charlotte.” Now that Curt has put down roots in Downtown Gastonia, and found his New York style loft here in Gastonia, we hope he’s here to stay for while. The Facts: Phone: 704-460-2386 |
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Freeman’s Pub That’s just the feel Freeman was going for. “I want this to be a neighborhood pub, where people can come in with their families and feel comfortable, or come in for a drink with their friends.” Freeman’s serves 40 beers in bottles and offers a full service bar. During the day, staff serves up a “pub grub” lunch menu that is short but hearty, featuring burgers, pub chips and wings. Freeman modeled his new business on two of his favorite pubs - one in Boston and, of course, Freemans Pub in New York City. Freeman’s goal of creating the ideal neighborhood watering hole includes a dart board, imported beers, simple décor and no flash. He chose the space because it was one of the oldest buildings on the block. Its battered walls and wood floors add to the old-world flavor. The bar has live music and Freeman hopes to extend that to four nights a week and add an open mic night. And Smoky Mary? A bloody Mary made with Irish whiskey. |
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251 Main Home Décor and Christmas Store The store began as a way to keep customers from “dropping in” at the PMUS Coatings factory, which makes decorations and ornaments for designer houses, Crutchfield said. Out of necessity, she and Anne Wiggens cleared out a small room in the front of the Bessemer City factory in September 2002, and sold Christmas ornaments on site. Crutfield said she stumbled across the idea of locating Downtown after she inquired about renting an apartment at The Standard. The Time was right for a move Downtown, Crutchfield said. “Times are tough, and what do we do when times are tough? We go back to traditions. We need the comfort of our hometown. This has a hometown feel.” |
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| Bangz Aveda Salon - opened Fall 2008 Bangz, is an Aveda Concept Salon located in what was once the Bargin Box and at one time housed the Merit Shoe Store at 169 W. Main Avenue. After three years of meetings, phone calls, e-mails, and an education in building codes, lighting and plumbing, Rita Lewis, owner, saw her vision materialize. In concert with Aveda’s green concept of sustainability, and it’s tenets of reduce, reuse, and recycle, Rita worked closely with architect and building owner, Allison Pell, to keep her “foot print” small as they worked together, using National Historic District Rehab Tax Credits to renovate the circa 1912 brick commercial building. The results? A high end urban styled, exposed brick, modern environment for all her clients to enjoy. www.bangzsalonspa.net |
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| GasPump Coffee – opened Summer 2008 Downtown Gastonia may no longer have a gas station, but fuel is now available with the opening of GasPump Coffee Co. The coffee shop and nearby offices are on the bottom floor of the building at 167 W. Main Ave. With its original brick walls, concrete wainscoting and ledges and a bright apple green paint, the space is urban and welcoming. Owner, Ella Childe and her husband, Brad Freeman are always ready to serve up their special coffee, a few treats from Nova’s Bakery and a little history about their “new home.” www.gaspumpcoffee.com |
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| Image Gallery - opened Summer 2008 The 1922 historic Kirby Building at 320 W. Main Avenue in Downtown Gastonia has seen many faces, but this time the transformation is the result of the magical touch of Dodie and Scott Huffman (formally of Photogenix Portrait Studio on York Street). The Image Gallery is a state of the art, boutique-style photographic studio and framing gallery. They specialize in fine art photography including bridal, engagement, weddings, families, children, and high school seniors. They also host photo events throughout the year. Visit their website or call for more information. www.igstudio.biz or call 704-869-8968. |
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| The Craig & Wilson Building update The Former Craig & Wilson Carriage Company circa 1899, was altered to its previous "stucco" appearance in the mid 1950's while occupied by Rayless Department Store. It has since been stripped of it’s “1950’s stucco dress”, and is being restored to its former glory. Historic photos show the original building was an elaborate High Victorian Gothic-style commercial building with wide arched entry and large flanking transom display windows; large arched windows at third floor; broken pediments at parapets above two projecting front bays. Currently Enhance Development and the McAllister Group are planning a historic renovation to create a mixed-use development to include retail/restaurant with office/residential in the upper floors. |
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The Hassani Buildings and adjacent property update The planned Phase 2 will consist of the Commercial Building, and Phase 3 will involve development of the Lawyers’ Building and the adjacent vacant lot extending to the Gaston County Tax Office. The sequence may change as the tenant situation demands. |
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| The Standard Phase Two – Available for immediate use Constructed circa 1930, the building located at 164-172 S. South Street, was the former Gastonia Hardware Company. The facade was obscured by metal cladding that was removed to expose the original brick facade. The retail/restaurant /residential spaces created during the Standard Phase two projects are now complete and ready for new life. If you are interested in renting any of these spaces contact Chuck McClure at: 704-674-1313. |
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