New Kingsport Boutique Amplifies Local Vendors
Kingsport– A new boutique in Kingsport, named after the three words that describe its unique style, “glitz, grunge, and grace”, is amplifying local talents. Established as a sanctuary for outcasts, the shop fills a niche left vacant by businesses like Spencer’s and Hot Topic.
The Unique Boutique
The boutique, Glitz, Grunge, Grace: A Unique Boutique, is located on Fort Henry Drive. The founders, Kori and Ricky Bender, were inspired to create a space welcoming all artists, especially those who craft unconventional art. Kori Bender went on record saying, “I wanted somewhere where all the weirdos were welcome, and the weirder the better.” The curiosity about the boutique, fueled by an interest in the possum painted on the front of the building, has already garnered a sizeable crowd.
A Platform for Vendors and Artisans
The boutique, which officially opened its doors on April 13, currently stocks products crafted by 40 different vendors from across the region. This includes artists as young as high school students. Customers can find an eclectic mix of merchandise such as earrings, t-shirts, stained glass creations, paintings, wooden art, and crochet stuffed animals. Bender further mentioned a variety of oddities, custom wrap lighters, t-shirts, tumblers, candles, and crystals.
Supporting a Cause
In an effort to support the community, the boutique also sells items from the Sullivan County Animal Shelter and The Bridge Home No Kill Animal Shelter. According to Bender, they even accept aluminum can donations, which are often used by The Bridge Home for fundraising since they lack state funding.
Future Plans
As part of its future plans, the boutique hopes to host food trucks and workshops by some of the featured artists. Currently open from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Tuesday through Thursday, and 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, there are plans to extend the hours based on availability.
Glitz, Grunge, Grace: A Unique Boutique is located at 3802 Fort Henry Drive, Kingsport, Tennessee. For more information, visit their Facebook page.
