Commuting has it’s perks. One of these being the places you discover along the way!
Classy Crossroads Boutique isn’t just another shop. From the products to the customer service, the atmosphere and the mood, it’s a must-visit boutique in Macclenny, Florida, just outside of Jacksonville.
As I recall, we first discovered this shop while commuting between Florida and South Carolina. One of my little niece’s in Florida had recently been diagnosed with leukemia. Overnight, life changed dramatically for my family.
My sister and I went from working at home to taking care of seven nephews and nieces and helping run a small farm. Thankfully, we were close to our nephews and nieces, but it was still an enormous shift for us all. Instead of spending my days filling orders of shipping supplies and interacting with customers, I was helping fix food, homeschool and keep house.
I will be the first to tell you that I adore children (especially when they behave – ha!), but this sudden switch gave me a hint of all the worries and concerns that Mamas and Daddies face. I was on high alert all the time – almost humorously! Doing head counts, holding hands, etc.
After a week or three of this, my sister and I had a weekend break. Family came from out of state and stayed with the children. When our parents came to pick us up, instead of heading for home, my Dad surprised us and took us shopping. What a delight – retail therapy at it’s finest!
He took us to this new shop he and Mama had been telling us about: Classy Crossroads Boutique. I remember walking in for the first time. The ladies were so friendly and welcoming. They were attentive without being pushy – they have customer service down to a science!
We continued to return to Classy Crossroads every few weeks during this time. My Dad always generously treated us to a few items of our choosing.
As time went on and my niece returned home we visited Florida less frequently. But still the thought of Classy Crossroads was on my mind. I had been running a shipping supply business up until then, but something about this boutique inspired me.
Having been unable to work my business while out of state, business slowed incredibly when I returned and went back to it. Sales were slow and somehow counting out shipping supplies didn’t hold the same charm as picturing working at a shop like Classy Crossroads. One day it occurred to me that what type of business I have is something I can choose. I sold shipping supplies because there was a need and I was able to fill it.
But as is typically the case, the end of one chapter is simply the beginning of another! Slowly I phased out of shipping supplies and began to research selling women’s clothing. I reached out to the lady who runs Classy Crossroads and told her what an inspiration and comfort her shop had been during such a trying time for us. And even now it continues to inspire me!
Every now and then when people come to my shop they will mention that they are from Jacksonville or are familiar with the area. I always ask if they know of Classy Crossroads and the answer is typically a resounding and enthusiastic “yes!”.
If you find yourself down that way, you really ought to visit them! Tell them the Burdick’s sent you – they just might remember us! Not planning a trip anytime soon? They have an impressive online shop that you’ll enjoy too: https://classycrossroads.com
Until Next Time!
Hope.
PS. Isn’t in fascinating where inspiration can strike? Perhaps it’s a family member, a friend, or a place. I’d love to hear your story! Feel free to email me – hope@theamericanlady.com.
Read about more recommended shops: https://www.theamericanlady.com/category/recommended-shops/