photos by: PETER COLIN MURRAY
Close to celebrating their exciting first year in business, Mary and Doug Harrington are beyond proud their supremely adorable and fun boutique – The Turtle’s Shell – has brought joy to the Sherrills Ford community they love!
“We’ve spent the first year paying very close attention to what our customers want and need, so we can continually provide new and exciting products,” shares Mary. “It’s hard to believe our first year in business is almost complete – we’ve had such wonderful support from all across the Lake Norman area. We are 100% focused on this community – and hope The Turtle’s Shell provides a feel-good experience for our customers – not just a place to run in and grab something.”
Keeping those customer requests in mind, The Turtle’s Shell will also be expanding their clothing and accessories collections this next season and modifying their “kids’” section to include baby gifts and other essentials for newborns. Mary shares that they also plan to add more women’s boutique lines and leisure wear (yes, that includes pajamas).
It’s easy to define their style – cute but comfortable – and oh-so perfect for lake life!
Mary and Doug are also very excited about their little section of The Village Shoppes, as the complex will soon add a local ice cream shop – The Scoop – and Your Wine Stop, along with their store and Neighbors 828 Restaurant.
“Opening at the beginning of the holiday shopping season last year was a mixed blessing, as we started strong and then encountered the post-holiday letdown,” says Mary. “But, it was also a good learning experience in strategic planning.”
She and Doug initially set out for the store to be focused on home décor, art and gifts – but soon saw a niche for women’s clothing, as well. Both are extremely excited about being part of the small business community here.
“Offering options for women of all ages is our goal, from colorful, easy-to-wear dresses, blouses, casual wear and jeans, to beach coverups, accent jewelry, purses, wallets and other cute, irresistible accessories.”
The shop’s lighthearted ambiance and constantly updated inventory has established a base of loyal customers during the past year who also comment on the great price points they find.
“We always want to be an affordable place for everyone to find something they love,” shares Mary. “That means we absolutely focus on quality items, but especially in the current focus on inflation and price increases, we want The Turtle’s Shell to remain a place where anyone can find something wonderful without breaking the bank!”
The ever-creative Mary has always had a flair for finding those “little extras” that bring a room to life – and that has played a huge role in designing the home décor side of the business.
“We love carrying distinctive accessory items that can freshen up the look of your home, even if you’re not a designer. That might be unique wall art, eclectic knick-knacks, stylish lighting, fun kitchenware and definitely some one-of-a-kind products,” adds Mary.
Boasting such a variety of inventory, The Turtle’s Shell also works closely with local creators to showcase their talents and promote unique, locally made products in the store.
Need a gift for birthdays, new homes, weddings and every traditional holiday on the calendar? The Turtle’s Shell has boldly embraced the “Lake Life” we all love so much, as well as showcasing their pride in Sherrills Ford, with unique Lake Norman tees and sweatshirts, towels, glassware and LKN coasters. Your favorite lake and boating necessities are always in plentiful supply – think tote bags, cooler bags, blankets, peaceful wind chimes, beautiful stained glass and lake-themed outdoor entertaining essentials.
Keep an eye on The Turtle’s Shell’s social media for updates on their upcoming anniversary celebration and customer appreciation week – as well as for details on their Christmas Open House on Thursday, November 13th. The store will be filled with amazing holiday gift ideas, unique decorations and a variety of festive holiday activities.
If you need an afternoon to relax and rejuvenate (and shop for yourself), or want to gather with friends to shop, socialize and smile nonstop, visit The Turtle’s Shell at 3861 Terrell Park Drive, Suite 400 in Sherrills Ford, NC, 828.620.7405. Visit theturtlesshell.com and follow @theturtles_shell on Instagram and Facebook for store updates and new product arrivals for this beautiful fall season!
