Boutique homeowners hope to make downtown Bethel a ‘destination’ in opening their second retail outlet

BETHEL — After opening their to start with boutique in downtown New Milford less than a 12 months ago, the entrepreneurs of Compass Rose Selection have their eyes established on a central spot in Bethel.

Heather Streaman Amaral and Claudia Newmaker will be opening a second retail store on the corner of Greenwood Avenue and P.T. Barnum Square on March 26.

The 515-sq.-foot cottage formerly occupied by Saltbox Antiques at 123 Greenwood Ave. was offered last spring, according to land information, and Streaman Amaral mentioned operate has been underway to enhance the home.

“The cottage was sort of difficult to see ahead of because of trees and items, but the landlord came in, gutted the constructing and took treatment of the landscaping and stuff,” she mentioned.

Streaman Amaral and Newmaker were being ready to perform with the landlord to style the building’s interior in a way identical to the aesthetic of their New Milford retail store.

“We wished to sort of capture the exact same vibe that we have up below in New Milford, and we were truly lucky in that component,” Streaman Amaral stated. “We have a beam below in New Milford with our chandelier hanging and we were ready to get a beam in (the Bethel retailer) so it will have that similar appear and sense.”

Though equally locations will have exclusive presents, which include those from area artisans and girls-owned models, Streaman Amaral claimed the Bethel shop will be a little bit various in that it will carry clothing like specialty tops and attire, as perfectly as some more components.

“The New Milford retail outlet is mostly home decor,” she claimed, noting candles from Newtown and knit hats from New Milford are some of the regionally-designed goods located at Compass Rose Assortment. ”We also have a ton of very town pleasure items like glasses and mugs.”

When she and Newmaker opened their New Milford boutique previous June, Streaman Amaral explained she never would have guessed that they’d open a second storefront much less than a yr afterwards.

“Business has been undertaking very well, and it’s been gained very well,” she explained.

The first Compass Rose Assortment is found on New Milford’s Bank Road, which Streaman Amaral said has begun to turn into “more of a desired destination,” with new shops and eateries popping up.

“New Milford appears to definitely appreciate Bank Street once again, and we’re type of hoping to convey that to Bethel,” she mentioned.

Streaman Amaral stated opening the second retail outlet in Bethel is specifically exciting because it is the place she grew up.

“I was born and elevated in Bethel, so I’m truly fired up to open up a retail outlet and assistance amp up the downtown,” she stated.

Streaman reported she’s also looking forward to forming relationships and doing the job with other community Bethel organization proprietors.

“I think it’s significant for smaller businesses to work alongside one another and help every other,” she mentioned. “Here in New Milford, we all variety of function with each other, and I want that vibe to be carried into Bethel.”

Streaman Amaral reported she has some great mates with companies in town and hopes to perform with them to “promote Bethel, its downtown and actually make it a destination.”