Family Connection & Community Ties
By: Brittany Hall
The Ashland Beacon
Everyone loves that hometown feel around the holidays. We love the comfort and familiarity of the lights, the traditions, the shopping and time with family and friends. There’s something special about going into your favorite stores and restaurants to prepare for the Christmas season. Part of the “Christmas magic” of shopping, part of what makes it special, are the local stores that we know and love. Often times we know the owner(s), we grew up going in with our parents, grandparents, and friends. There is a certain comfort and sense of normalcy in that, which we are losing in our society. We go there for the nostalgia, the memories and the smiles, and the “How’s your mom and dad?” or “How are the kids?”
It’s this atmosphere that store owner Bryan Hall is hoping to create at Bluegrass Collectors. Even though this is their first holiday season in operation, he has already noticed the repeat customers coming in for all those reasons and more.
“It has been a very positive aspect to have folks who continue to show up and support your business,” Hall said with a smile.
So, what makes Bluegrass Collectors unique and a newly favored destination? Every item offered is as individual as the customer themselves. Those one-of-a-kind gifts that are specifically chosen with care and thought can be found there.
“I enjoy being able to help people find their loved ones a gift that isn’t your ‘run of the mill’, made in bulk gift. For lack of a better term, a lot of our gifts show an effort and intimate knowledge of a person,” Hall said.
But, Christmas isn’t all about shopping and gifts - it’s about family time and community, as well.
“The thing I will take away from our first holiday season is really working with my family.”
Hall co-owns the niche store with his parents, Greg and Devonna Hall. Along with them, you may even be greeted by special helpers Avery and Taylor, Bryan’s daughters.
“My daughters coming in and seeing all the new items is always something I enjoy. Our family dynamic has changed just by getting to spend time with my family. Planning and organizing the store for holidays allows for more time together.”
Along with a stronger family connection, the returning customers have allowed a deeper sense of community within Boyd and Greenup counties.
“I have always been a fan of shopping local. For me, the relationships you make with those in your community are so important. It may be cliche, but the idea that the money you spend in a local business usually stays in your community is the most important thing for me. I love shopping at many of our local shops and have developed some amazing relationships with other local business owners,” Hall stated.
Hall is no stranger to those strong family and community ties, having worked with several schools coaching local students in baseball and basketball. In both arenas, community and family support is absolutely necessary.
Those familiar stores and friendly experiences are not just about shopping though.
“Shopping local shows a sense of caring for your local community,” Hall says. “That you care about the businesses that sponsor your little league teams and other local events.”
Opening a family business is no small feat, and it seems like everyone has an opinion or advice to share. When asked about advice that he had been given that had stuck with him, he recalled, “The best advice that sticks with me, especially in this business, is that ‘you make money when you buy, not when you sell’. I have taken that to mean I have to put the work in to go out and find the right inventory and find things at a price point that is fitting to our local community.”
No one is exempt from feeling the effects of the trying times that our country is in. Business owners are no different. The Halls are very thankful for every customer that walks through their door.
“Someone choosing to spend their money with my business is not something I take lightly,” he says. “It is a great honor to have people share in your business and take the time to visit your business,” Hall gratefully adds.
So if you’re looking for a unique gift for that unique loved one, go experience this one-of-a-kind family owned and operated local business. Bluegrass Collectors is located at 1417 Diederich Boulevard, Russell, KY. Hours of operation are Monday thru Friday 10-5, Saturday 9-2, and Sunday 1-4.