There's a new clothing store in Clearwater and it's seeking to give local residents more variety in their shopping choices.
"My main objective to get a little something for all age groups," said business owner Rhonda England. "I'd like to hear what people are interested in. That's why we have a suggestion box on the front counter."
Customer input has already resulted in England stocking a selection of plus-sizes.
She is also negotiating for the opportunity to stock a line of high-end jeans.
Originally from the Lower Mainland, England moved to Clearwater about one year ago to help care for her mother, who was not in good health.
Her mother passed away last April but her father is still here and she's found she's fallen in love with Clearwater.
"It's a pleasure to live here and be part of the community," she said. "It's been a very pleasant experience in my life."
When her mother died she felt the urge to start her own business again.
"Entrepreneurship runs in my blood," she said. "My mother was in business, and I had a homebound salon business for 10 years. I also did hearing testing."
She considered opening her own salon again but decided a clothing store would fill a greater need.
"So far it's been fun," England reported. "I've never been in retail before and I'm really enjoying it. It's been a learning experience every day."
The new store owner has four children. Two sons live elsewhere, one son attends Clearwater Secondary School, and one daughter is thinking of moving to Clearwater with her granddaughter.