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Photo by Elliot J. Sutherland/The Ottawa Herald
Jill Plumb, owner of Western & Primitive Connection, 111 S. Main St., Ottawa, displays different upholstery options at her store in downtown Ottawa.
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Diverse shopping opportunities abound
‘Offering products you can’t find in a big chain obviously is a great point to have’
By JODIE GARCIA, Herald Staff Writer
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Ottawans don’t need to drive to Lawrence or Kansas City when they get the urge to shop — plenty of options await them downtown, P.J. Stephenson, Ottawa Main Street Association director, said.
A western shop and candle store were among the businesses to join stores, offices and restaurants on Ottawa’s Main Street.
“I think we have a pretty good variety,” Stephenson said.
Western & Primitive Connection, which opened near the end of last year at 111 S. Main St., offers a variety of western items and decor, including log furniture, dinnerware, jewelry and quilts.
Those shopping for gifts — or just gifts for themselves — can also stop at Kaswa Imports, 113 S. Main St. The store sells marble and brass items manufactured in Pakistan, along with women’s clothing, purses, wall hangings, wine bottles, flower pots, plates and candle holders.
Speaking of candles, candle lovers who want to get creative can do so at Halo Candle, 312B S. Main St., where they can create and name their own fragrances, get their used jars filled and match colors to fragrances.
The store opened in August.
Stephenson said selling what people want and can’t easily get elsewhere is key for small retail businesses.
“Offering products you can’t find in a big chain obviously is a great point to have,” he said.
He said Ottawa is on its way in terms of diverse retail offerings.
“That’s made a huge turnaround,” he said.
He said the newer businesses join other stores selling jewelry, furniture, sports apparel, flowers, decor and gift items.
But that doesn’t mean retail growth is finished for downtown.
“As long as we have the space, let’s bring them on,” Stephenson said. “You can always use more.”
Herald staff writer Jodie Garcia can be e-mailed at jgarcia@ottawaherald.com.
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