“It’s so powerful to hear their stories,” says Barnett. Shop owners, she says, have been forthright about the company’s impact on their lives; they say it frees up time for them to spend with family while providing an income: “We’re able to take some of the load off.” Lucie Switalski operates the Lucie & Willow Boutique, selling home décor and such clothes and accessories as comfortable T-shirt dresses, cozy lounge sets, and vibrant statement earrings. (A shop favorite is the “What Would Dolly Do?” Dolly Parton tribute tee.) Switalski wears many hats in addition to that of boutique owner, and her fast-paced life can make it difficult for her to find the time she needs to cultivate her business. That’s where Painted Tree comes in. As Switalski is selecting new styles or directing the brand’s social media strategy from home, Painted Tree clients are walking into her booth and shopping. “Within my first week as a vendor, I exceeded my sales expectations and made several new business connections,” she says. The brand recently launched The Life and Style Podcast, in which Barnett interviews business owners whom she calls dreamers and makers. She covers such topics as finding inspiration and cultivating creativity. “To put it simply,” Switalski says, “the space is filled with creativity and passion. Each vendor puts their heart and soul into their booth.” Interested entrepreneurs can apply for shop space here.
Treasures to be found at the Painted Tree in Virginia Beach
Have you seen the new tree at Hilltop North Shopping Center? A big tree has taken over the old Stein Mart location — it’s true. It’s called Painted Tree Boutiques. The new retail space opened in early May.
I know many Stein Mart fans have missed the discounted department store. Over the years, I scored many deals on bedding, shoes and accessories. I was sad to see it go. However, a wonderful store has taken root with a plethora of shopping options.
Painted Tree is a huge space filled with mini-storefronts. Each local vendor has a booth with unique products. It feels like you’re walking into a huge Etsy shop with the variety of creative artisans and curated merchandise.
I was pleasantly surprised when I first visited the Painted Tree in early May. I was expecting a generic space with vendors selling junky merchandise akin to a flea market. It was the exact opposite.
The beautifully lit space presents like a stylish showroom. Each entrepreneur has crafted a delightful display. Some of the spaces were off the charts with creativity. My favorite one was called Pure Glam. It sold bath and body treats in the shape of cupcakes and donuts. The area was set up like a bakery with a pink and white striped awning. Another cool area, The Retro Den, used vinyl records as a backdrop. The most popular theme seemed to be coastal inspired or just cozy rooms decked out with rugs and trendy products.
Being an art lover, I was thrilled to see lots of local artwork in many of the spaces. One of my favorite local artists, Barbra Myers, had a space. Now, I don’t have to wait for the next art show to see her paintings.
While browsing through the aisles, I ran into Carla Ryan, a local artisan who set up a space selling her decals and paper goods. She creates skyline designs featuring local landmarks for cities all over the United States. Her products have been sold on Etsy and at several retail locations. She said this has been her first chance to sell her goods at a mini storefront.
“This is a wonderful outlet for small businesses to get started,” Ryan said. “This will bring more unique items to the Oceanfront.”
I spent over an hour checking out each and every one of the mini boutiques in the Painted Tree. I didn’t want to miss any merchandise. There are over 200 vendors that sell jewelry, clothing, purses, hats, soaps, furniture, bird houses, home decor and more. It’s a tad overwhelming in a good way. I challenge you not to find a treasure in this creative shopping paradise. I eventually purchased a vintage style purse.
I’m definitely not mourning Stein Mart anymore. Something better has sprouted up in its place, the Painted Tree.
The Painted Tree is 1624 Laskin Road, Virginia Beach.
What are the top-selling items at Painted Tree?
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THE DELICATE DISH
With years of experience in multiple locations across the country, Painted Tree Boutiques brings a high level of professionalism to all stores to help you succeed. They take marketing your business to the next level with an on-staff marketing team and a nationally recognized advertising agency to oversee many proven methods to most effectively reach the shopping public.
In fact, there are no work requirements! Painted Tree Boutiques works for you, not the other way around. View your sales online in real time so that you know when to restock. Their team goes the extra mile to make the vendor experience the best it can be. Not only do they resource their vendors in multiple ways to help them succeed, Painted Tree Boutiques also has highly trained staff that knows the value of customer service in supporting you and your shoppers.
Become a Shop Owner and See Your Business Flourish
Step 1: Apply
Select the location(s) where you’d like to be a shop owner, and tell them about yourself and what you’d like to sell.
Step 2: Pick Your Space
Choose the perfect spot for your business using our easy-to-use interactive map.
Step 3: Set Up Shop
Design and stock your space, and Painted Tree Boutiques will take care of the rest (sales, taxes, etc.)!
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Stevenson was St. Louis Magazine’s managing editor in 2021 and the magazine’s associate editor from 2018–2021. Like this story? Want to share other feedback? Send editor-in-chief Jarrett Medlin an email at [email protected]. Read more by Samantha Stevenson
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