How It All Started

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I’ve always loved thrifting and design. The hunt, the story, the way the right piece can change a space. But I never expected to run a consignment shop, let alone build something like this.

One Friday in August, I found out that Charlevoix Consignment was for sale. It had about 60 consignors and a small setup, nothing flashy, just potential. By Tuesday, I was opening the doors as the new owner. No business degree, no long-term prep... just a gut feeling and a leap of faith.

I spent my first few nights at the shop pulling all-nighters, transforming the space into something that felt like mine. Every shelf, every section, every decision was a step toward building a place that felt intentional and welcoming.

Since then, this place has grown into something bigger than I imagined. We’ve expanded, rebranded as The Hidden Gem, and grown to over 250 consignors. What started small has become a space that blends quality secondhand, local handmade, and design that feels thoughtful, not chaotic.

From the beginning, I made the choice to keep things affordable while still offering higher-end pieces. I’ve always loved a consignment shop that doesn’t break the bank to support. I wanted this to be a space where anyone can shop and feel good about what they’re taking home... and for it to feel a little more elevated than your average thrift store, without losing that sense of warmth and approachability.

And I’ve done it all with my two boys by my side. Most days, they’re here with me...playing, helping, occasionally screaming like feral raccoons in the back. This business is part of their childhood and part of our life. It’s not always easy, but it’s real, and it’s ours.

The Hidden Gem is for people who appreciate the good stuff , not just the newest or the trendiest, but the things with story, quality, and soul.

Thanks for being here, for supporting small, and for standing with me and the boys as we navigate this and learn. It means more than you know.