Evergreen Fine Crafts Turns 30 This Month!

On March 28th, 2013, Evergreen Fine Crafts will officially turn 30 years old! Business co-owner Sharon Silvestini remembers starting up the store with business partner Diane Robinson many years ago.

"Diane and I worked together in New Haven and we always used to go to craft fairs and collect business cards," Sharon told Guilford Patch. "But we really knew nothing about retail. At the time, I was working as a secretary and Diane was working in another department."

"After some time, we both ended up getting laid off," Sharon continued. "And we thought we should have a try at our dream of opening up our own craft place. Thanks to our husbands' wonderful support, we were able to do just that."

Evergreen initially opened up shop at the Strawberry Hill location, and remained there for about a year and a half.

"That start up was tough, just like any business," said Sharon. "I knew we had to get to the Guilford Green." After six years at another location close to the Green on Boston St., the business had a chance at Sharon's ideal location.

"We were third in line for our current spot on the Green, and somehow we got it," Sharon explained. "We were so lucky, and we have such a great landlord. While we were at our Boston St. location Diane and I each had kids, and we used to bring them into work with us and take them in the strollers around the Green. There's so many great things to remember."

When looking back at the last 30 years, Sharon said she had so many people to thank.

"Our customers are just fabulous," she stated. "Just amazing. I can't say enough good things. We have to thank the town of Guilford and surrounding shoreline towns for their support and business through all of these years. We love them all."

"We have to give a lot of credit to our husbands," she added. "They would come down all the time to help us with upkeep around the store. They've always been such strong supporters of our dreams."

"And, of course, I have to personally thank my wonderful business partner," Sharon concluded. "It is just amazing that we've been partners for all these years. I'm so very lucky to have found such an incredible partner in this venture."

To keep up on the latest from Evergreen as they celebrate their big birthday, make sure to 'like' them on Facebook.