BROOKFIELD – While John Grexa is a seasoned businessman, this will be his first Small Business Saturday.
“I’m excited about it,’’ Grexa, owner of the new Country Cottage art, gift and home decor store in Brookfield. said.
Located just off The Green in the former JP Marsh building, he created the store patterned after his own artistic career and love of seasonal crafts.
With the holiday season here, his store now features Christmas items with the past in mind.
“I’m real big into vintage Christmas,’’ Grexa said.
Casting a wide net among the area’s artistic community, his products include jewelry, candles, pottery, Christmas ornaments and purses to name a few.
His core product mix runs between $5 to $30.
“We want our store to be affordable for people,’’ Grexa said.
Also included is his own artwork, which is Faberge-style eggs.
Graduating from Youngstown State University last Christmas, he received a bachelor’s degree in business administration. But his introduction to the business community came way before.
Now 24, the Hartford resident started his first business, Hartford Hinges, when he was just 14. The tiny hinges he produces are used in decorative eggs, jewelry boxes and other artistic items.
Grexa began crafting his decorative eggs at the same age, and his customer base covers the globe.
“I’m in places like Japan, South America and am really big in Great Britain,’’ he said.
After Christmas, his product mix will begin to reflect Valentine’s Day and a bit of spring.
“We’re looking to create something memorable here,’’ Grexa said.
Small Business Saturday and community holiday events are scheduled throughout the area:
• At participating stores in downtown Sharon there will be sales and opportunities to win giveaways and other goodies throughout the day. From 4 to 6 p.m. will feature the Night of Lights with kids activities, live music and a tree lighting.
• Greenville will offer a pop-up vendor market during the day. And participating stores and restaurants will offer a chance to win giveaways for every $50 spent through Dec. 2.
• Mercer will have its Christmas on the Square event 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, Dec. 6, which features entertainment and kids activities.
• Grove City will have its Light Up Night with Santa starting 5 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 6, with extended store hours, a scavenger hunt and other events including a visit with Santa.
More about Country Cottage: Phone 330-651-2255. Facebook: Country Cottage Seasonal Gifts
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