Rose Garden Boutique Benefits From the RNC

Most everyone in Safety Harbor knows that Tennessee delegates are staying at the for the week. 

But will this visit from delegates who spend most of their waking hours at the Republican National Convention in Tampa translate into revenue for downtown businesses? 

Patch canvassed the area to find out. In one case, in particular, the answer is a resounding, “yes.”

“At least 25 people from the RNC have stopped in over the last few days,” Rose Garden Boutique owner Dee Dokumaci said. “They have been so nice…and many of them have bought things.” 

Dokumaci, who opened her shop directly across from the Resort in May, said she has seen a significant uptick in business since the delegates began arriving in town over the weekend. 

Groups of travelers from Tennessee have been in and out of the store, some purchasing items on their first trip while others return after making an initial visit. 

Dokumaci has been having members of the delegation sign her guest registry, and she’s got some pretty impressive names on that list. 

“Congressman (Chuck) Fleischmann came in with his wife the other day,” she said. “His wife bought a dress, I believe. They were both extremely nice.” 

In addition to the congressman, a woman who is playing Martha Washington during the convention came in dressed in full original First Lady attire, according to Dokumaci. 

"That was pretty neat," she said.

The extra traffic has helped Rose Garden stay afloat during what traditionally is a slower time for business. Dokumaci, who describes herself as a “proud Republican,” says she hopes to see the tradition continue.

“Right now I am concentrating on the RNC. It’s a big deal for us. We want them to come back in four years.”