From Paula and Jim:
Thought you might like a little update of how things are going.
About 6 weeks ago a few people met at 400 Columbia Turnpike and sat in a nearly empty store and talked about The Blue Fiddle.
Since then, much has happened.....
1. You got busy with your work and have nearly filled the store with wonderful items that we're sure will appeal to our soon-to-be customers.
2. Paula and I have combed the capital district for reasonable tables, display cases, etc., and the store is filled with those now also.
3. The word spread about the coming of a new store, and we are now no longer a few people thinking about how we can do this. The list of craft people and artists is approaching 25. More people call or drop in almost everyday.
4. While I was working there today, I turned away four people who just saw the shop and thought they would come in to shop.
5. All of the building permits, certificates of occupancy, insurance, tax numbers, business licenses, phone lines, etc. (whew!) are in place and ready to go.
6. The Mastercard/Visa lady comes this week to make the final installation of that machine, so we will be able to take charge cards.
... and so it goes. We are ready to have the opening on September 15...Saturday...at NOON. We don't have a brass band, and we won't be dressing anyone in a costume to stand by the road. We did have a sandwich board sign made to put out front, and there will be ads in the Advertiser and Metroland. Other than that, we're describing this as a "soft" opening. Truth is, we're kind of afraid of being overwhelmed that first day. (Hint.....if you have time, drop by on Saturday for awhile and make sure we aren't being swamped......remember, we're new at this whole store thing.)