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New business combines couple’s interests

FOLLANSBEE – Summer and Jim Dodd, owners of Strings & Things at 1008 Main St. can truly say their new business is a dream come true.

Summer said she had been selling wreaths, handbags and other handmade items at area festivals when she gently chided her husband about the many guitars he kept around their home.

Over the years Jim has enjoyed creating custom-made guitars for area musicians and also had accumulated an array of used electric and acoustic guitars.

Summer said that night she dreamed she opened a craft store and Jim and his close friend and fellow musician, Tim Elson, started bringing in guitars.

Thus the idea for Strings & Things was born.

“We took our two hobbies and made one store,” said Summer.

In addition to offering guitars designed to meet the needs and styles of a variety of musicians, the store sells various used guitars, straps, strings, cables and other guitar accessories.

Meanwhile, Summer has filled much of the store with hand-made scarves, hair bows, scented candles, Avon products and various decorative items.

Summer said with Christmas approaching soon, Strings & Things offers many unique gift choices.

She said when possible she will continue to frequent craft shows and other special events, including Weirton Medical Center’s Holiday Market on Nov.8, to help spread the word about the store.

Noting Elson also is a partner in the business, she said the three owe much to family members who have helped them in getting the business open.

Many were on hand for a ribbon cutting conducted by the Follansbee Chamber of Commerce.

The store is open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday.

For information about selling crafts through the store or ordering a custom-made guitar, call (304) 604-3685.

(Scott can be contacted at wscott@heraldstaronline.com.)

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