MIDDLETON - One of the newest and most unique additions to the business landscape of Middleton is Hidden Valley Treasures, a boutique-style clothing store that opened for business Nov. 2.
“We've been open two weeks today,” owner Melanie Salisbury said Nov. 16. “I've always wanted my own business, and the idea of a clothing store came to me over the past couple of years.”
Salisbury worked in retail for several years, though her background is in youth and family therapy.
“I used retail therapy as a technique for myself, and for other clients, for many years,” she said.
Seven years ago, she took a leave of absence from her career to be a full-time mom.
When the time came to return to work, she opted for a change of scenery.
A little over two years ago, Melanie, her husband, Daniel, and their four children moved back to Nova Scotia from Ontario, and settled in the Annapolis Valley as a result of a military posting.
“We created this opportunity. We did some research into various kinds of businesses, and decided to combine it all together. Our youngest child started school this fall, so the timing was perfect.”
Hidden Valley Treasures features “new ladies' clothing,” specializing in “unique styles and fashions.” She had identified clothing as a retail sector that was underrepresented in this area.
Eventually, and sooner rather than later, she plans to offer men's clothing as well, specializing in jeans and T-shirts to start with, but planning for growth.
“We're just getting started,” she said.
Salisbury is also planning a 'curvy' line of clothing for women.
“I'm hoping both the men's line and the 'curvy' women's line will be open by the weekend. It's all here. I just have to get it out,” she said.
The store is located in the former Annapolis Valley Spectator office.
“This space used to be a series of offices. We renovated for a month-and-a-half before we could open,” she said.
“We'll have a good space here. I'm only using about half of it now, and I'm planning to use it all.”
Salisbury is in the process of designing and constructing a new large sign with the slogan“ life is too short to wear boring clothing.”
Salisbury acknowledged the significant amount of help from her husband, which allowed her dream to become a reality.
“Daniel was the one who pushed and encouraged me in this venture,” she said. “None of this would have been possible without his help and support… we had spent our whole lives waiting for the right moment, and we finally decided the moment is now.”
Salisbury is hopeful her business will be a popular addition to the Middleton and area business community.
Hidden Valley Treasures is open Monday to Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., at 87 Commercial Street in Middleton.
Reach the store by phone at 902-825-2176 or by e-mail at [email protected], or check out www.hiddenvalleytreasures.ca.
