In 2004 Michelle, her husband Greg and her 9 year old daughter moved from Oshawa to their new home in Manilla. Shortly thereafter their baby son came along to complete the family circle. Michelle, being a very ambitious person and no stranger to the riggers of operating her own business decided to try her hand at a unique clothing store in the little town of Woodville, just a 12 minute drive from her home. Her intentions were to couple her ambitions of owning her own business with the responsibilities of rearing a young family. She felt that bringing her young son to the new store with her each day would make that possible.

In the past, Michelle worked as a trainer and a counsellor for a weight loss company and eventually obtained her "on the job training" in operating a business when she became the owner of her own franchise. Armed with the extensive experience of training and counselling Michelle has amassed a bevy of ideas for special promotions and exceptional customer service ideas.

On May 12th of this year, with the help of her husband Greg, who built shelves, painted walls and did almost everything needed to spruce up the store, Kawartha's Closet became a reality. Since that time Michelle has been thrilled with the warm and friendly response she has received from the wonderful people in the area. Some of her customers have been very generous with their suggestions for her store and she has found the town to be extremely supportive of her efforts. She really enjoys the comfortable, casual laid-back practices of the people she deals with.

What will you find when you visit Kawartha's Closet on King Street in Woodville? Well...... you will be amazed at the selection of clothing, accessories, formal wear, candles, baby items, hats and handbags. Kawartha's Closet sells all types of baby's, children's, maternity, women's and men's pre-owned clothing on consignment. The items for sale in Kawartha's Closet are in excellent condition and provide you with a very affordable alternative to shopping for your wardrobe or your family's closet. You are also going to find a unique play area set aside for the little ones while you do your shopping.....Michelle knows only too well how that comes in handy, and relieves the pressure of shopping with kids.

As well as sending out a monthly news letter advising her customers of her current specials she has also designed a special Shop & Save Coupon for her customers. Pick up a "$hop and $ave" card and start saving today. Her Shop & Save program works on a point system. For every dollar spent, you receive 1 point. When you reach 50 points, you can redeem your card for $5.00 off your next purchase. Or, you can save your points and redeem them when you reach 100 for $15.00 off your next purchase. That is a very generous point system! You can also earn extra points on BONUS POINT days, which are identified in her monthly newsletters.

Michelle's aspirations for the future are to continue to expand her product lines. She is looking into supplying baby furniture and has currently made a special arrangement with "Lamaze", a company who manufacture infant development systems. These exciting products are in her store today.

I know you all will wish Michelle good luck with her efforts. Drop by the store to check it out and say hi.