Today's photo features two businesses at 1615 West Friendly Avenue, Fern + Amelia and Elan Design Source. Both are owned and operated by Angie Besecker. Angie grew up in Greensboro, graduating from Ragsdale High School and UNCG. She is a talented designer who sells handmade customizable fabric and makes furniture in-house. She is conscious of reducing her store's carbon footprint and sources as much as possible in North Carolina. On the homewares/antiques side of the store (Fern + Amelia), she sells items that are fair trade and ethically sourced. At UNCG, she earned a degree in business, focusing on marketing; however, her love of design moved her in the direction of making furniture in-house, fitting the precise needs of the client and their living space.
These businesses on West Friendly has been open for about 18 months. They are located is in the building next to Bandito Burrito, in a spot where Madison Avenue once extended, before Josephine Boyd Street was constructed- ending Madison Avenue at Smyres Place. Angie pointed out some of the new businesses around hers. A small boutique, Tribe Thrift, will be opening soon. Directly across the street is Wylie's Gourmet Cafe and Desserts. Angie recommends their pimento cheese sandwiches. She is so encouraged about the growth in the area and mentioned there is talk of branding the area, from 1618 West Seafood Grill to the plaza where her store is located, as West End. If you know Winston-Salem's West End, you will get a feel for what is emerging in this part of town. It is encouraging to see new businesses there and inspiring to talk to an entrepreneur like Angie.
Happy Wednesday!
Quite a welcoming space.
Posted by: William Kendall | Wednesday, January 11, 2023 at 11:21 AM