Comfort and Joy
What: Furniture and home accessories
Where: 106 S. Main St., New Carlisle
Hours: Open Tuesday through Saturday 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
NEW CARLISLE — After 20 years of running estate sales, Trish Byerman knows a thing or two about determining the value of an item. That is why she has sought local artisans to display their goods in her downtown furniture and home store, Comfort and Joy.
Stained glass, oil paintings, wood-turned bowls, locally made soap and lotions, reversible bags and greeting cards are among the local artisans’ works Byerman offers in her first venture as a store owner.
“These are locally made, not mass-manufactured, quality items and they are reasonably priced,” she said. Most of the artists reside in Miami, Champaign and Clark counties. She acquired the items one of two ways — either the artisan approached her or she sought them out — such a local woman who knits baby clothes.
“I said I like what you do, would you make some items for my store?” Byerman said.
The foundation of Comfort and Joy is the recycled antique and newer, simple furniture and accessories Byerman hand picks for her customers.
“I’m interested in helping people create comfort and joy in their personal environment,” she said. “I keep a wish list for customers. I can’t say I find everything, but I try.”
Prior to opening the store in September 2008, Byerman was an independent contractor, providing decorating services to major retailers, running estate sales and working with antiques.
While some of her friends questioned the timing of her store opening, “It seemed like a really good time for me because of what I do, offering recycled furniture and accessories.”
At the end of the month, Byerman’s friend, Marla Cross, will open a new consignment shop behind Comfort and Joy’s main showroom. Cross’ shop, Yellow Cherry, will hold its grand opening during the city’s New Year’s Eve celebration.
“I think the two stores will be real compatible,” Byerman said. “We are going to work for each other some days. We’ll have more to offer people.”
Byerman’s family have been in New Carlisle for eight generations, but that’s not the only reason she chose it for her eclectic store.
“There is a charm to this downtown you can’t find in other places,” she said. “I really see New Carlisle growing.”
Contact this reporter at (937) 328-0347 or kmori@coxohio.com.
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