By Sarah Kuper Christopher Groom, founder of Mountain High Outfitters, is busy preparing a new space in a more prominent location at The Summit for his popular outdoor store. Groom is moving from his current storefront near Saks Fifth Avenue to the high side of The Summit shopping center. “After many years tucked in the corner, we are able to move up toward Urban Outfitters. … [Read more...]
Customer-Focused Service: It’s No Accident the Word‘Service’ Comes Right After ‘Guin’ in Company Name
By Sam PrickettOn a recent, cold January night, Joseph Braswell woke up to a ringing phone. Even though it was the middle of the night, he answered it.The person on the other end — a customer of Guin Service, Braswell’s family business — was having a particularly bad night. The freezing weather had caused their pipes to rupture.“So I woke up and found somebody … [Read more...]
A Doll’s House: A Childhood Surrounded by Fame and a Career Inspired by Beauty and Make-Believe
By Sarah KuperIt has been 40 years since 82-year-old Mary Charles Robbins opened her fine doll and miniatures store in Mountain Brook Village.Originally intended as an antique store, she and four other ladies opened the shop with no retail experience or seed money. They soon learned there was a high demand for antique dolls, accessories and doll repair … [Read more...]
A Season of Surprises: Shopping Is Child’s Play With Recommendations From OTM Toy Stores
By Donna CorneliusThe best Christmas presents often are unexpected treats, especially when it comes to a special toy under the tree. Sometimes, though, it’s not just children who are surprised. Even toy store owners can be startled when an item they hope will earn respectable sales flies off the shelf. Homewood Toy & Hobby owner Tricia McCain and manager Julie Marix … [Read more...]
Insuring Prosperity: Greenhalgh Insurance Celebrates 80 Years
By Emily Williams When Ted Greenhalgh started Greenhalgh Insurance in 1937, setting up in the Southside of Birmingham, the idea of buying liability insurance was new for many homeowners. Eighty Years later, the company has not only served its community by providing the insurance, it has spread its coverage across 25 states. But its heart and headquarters remain in … [Read more...]