BUSINESS PROFILE:
Name: Robin McGrath
Business: Sugar & Spice Country Shoppe
Title: Owner
Years in Business: 9
Q: Can you briefly describe your business?
A: I have a primitive, country gift shop and feature seasonal & home decor, antiques, gourmet foods, locally made items, children’s toys, jewelry, accessories, unique gifts & more!
Q: What is your product or service specialty?
A: Unique gifts …in an atmosphere reflective of simpler times…the ambiance of being at home.
Q: How did your business get started?
A: I experimented with seasonal open houses and displays in my home & in local businesses under the name Treehouse Treasures while teaching full time. Once I had my daughter, I decided I wanted to be home with her so I could enjoy being a mom. Once I made that decision, a friend mentioned owning storefront & being able to bring my daughter to work with me…the rest is history! Within the month, Sugar & Spice Country Shoppe was born.
Q: Why do you recommend people do business with you?
A: We have a unique variety of merchandise which is ever-changing…so that in our customers return visits, there is always something new to see! We have friendly customer service and wrap each purchase in tissue and a kraft bag …it is a gift to open once it is home. I always say, we’re not just selling merchandise…we’re selling an experience-an ambiance and fond remembrance of earlier days…from the sights of period displays and sounds of early American music, to the smells of the season with candles flickering, our customers are always invited to slow down their hectic lives, to enjoy, and to get inspired in their own homes.
Q: What makes you the most proud of your business?
A: We’ve had some true economic challenges, some unfortunate happenings that really had us wondering where to go next. We always pick up, dust off and move on. Small town downtowns are dwindling and I was convinced we could overcome these obstacles and we have…it is rewarding to see your customers repeatedly shop in your store and I love knowing that for 9 years and many struggles, we are still here enjoying our gift shop in downtown Ticonderoga.
Q: What do you most want people to know about you?
A: I would say that l love my job and we’re in existence for them. Think outside the box. Get involved… support what’s in our town first so we can continue to grow…be a part of the solution…not part of the problem.
Complete the following sentence: A really great day for our company is when…
A. “Customers come, enjoy, compliment, buy and leave with a smile!”
Visit Sugar & Spice Country Shoppe in Ticonderoga, and read more about local business owners in our TACC Member Spotlight articles!