Stamford Small Business Spotlight: The Funky Hippie Gift and Art Shop

Every local business has a story worth sharing with the community. And that’s the belief behind this exciting series — to shine the spotlight on all our favorite local businesses, and to learn a little about the ones we may not know that well.

Business: The Funky Hippie Gift & Art Shop
Owners: Nicole Simonelli
Website: www.thefunkyhippie.com
Address: 101 Glenbrook Rd 2nd Floor

How did you come up with the name?

I originally wanted to call the business Sassafrass but it was taken. Then just through wordplay I came up with The Funky Hippie.

Why choose that location? Why start a business in this town?

I was born and raised here and wanted to bring this shop to our community.

Briefly, what business are you in?

Handmade Gifts/Retail.

What’s the most difficult moment or challenge you’ve faced as a business owner?

Getting the word out there and advertising.

What’s been your favorite moment or proudest achievement since opening?

When our customers come in they have words of praise and good will about the store and the products offered.

How does your business give back or get involved in the community?

All of our products are handmade and 80 percent are local within Conn. We sell several items where a percentage of the proceeds goes to charity. And if someone comes into the shop and inquires, we will donate a percentage of the sale to the charity of their choice. We support local artists by displaying their art for sale.

Would you like to see your small business showcased in this series? Email wendy.mitchell@ patch.com.