Small Business Spotlight: Revitalizing Marshalltown One Shoppe at a Time
Posted
on Wednesday, May 1, 2024
in
News and Announcements
Real Deals has provided a “premier destination for home décor and women’s fashion” right here in Marshalltown since 2021. The shoppe’s inventory changes weekly, and stocks many hand-picked items from around the world as well as many USA-made products. This makes Real Deals the perfect place to locally purchase anything from gifts to clothing to home décor.
As Real Deals closes in on their 3-year anniversary later this year, Michelle Burgess, the shoppe’s owner, is seeing the rewards of her labors as she reflects on the strong relationships her team has made with their customers.
“We have become friends with so many of our customers. We have laughed and cried together, and helped people find just what they were looking for,” Burgess explained. “When customers walk out with a smile and [feel] better about their day, we know we made a difference.”
When opening her shoppe, Burgess hoped not only to impact individual customers, but the Marshalltown community as whole. Burgess remembers a time when Marshalltown was the place to shop and hopes to bring some of that nostalgic atmosphere back to Marshalltown and surrounding communities.
“I really wanted to be a part of the revitalization of downtown Marshalltown,” Burgess added. “I was constantly driving out of town to go shopping. I wanted to bring a unique shopping experience to our community.”
While Real Deals has played a role in revitalizing downtown, Burgess knows it wouldn’t be possible without the support of the Marshalltown Central Business District and the Marshalltown Area Chamber of Commerce. The two organizations “have made a huge impact” and Burgess is incredibly appreciative of their collaboration.
“[United Bank & Trust] is always helpful and support[ive] [of] the small businesses in our community,” Burgess added. “Having a local banker in your own community that [looks out] for your success is priceless, you can’t ask for much more than that.”
Going forward, Burgess hopes to continue doing two of her favorite things: helping to grow downtown Marshalltown and continuing to make relationships with more local customers.
“The best part of owning a small business,” Burgess explained, “is to see the community come together and show their support. Hearing [customers’] appreciation means the world to us.”