June 19, 2012 — “Born and raised in Rowan County...” Carole Perry Stewart said with a smile. The owner of Daddy’s Daughter Outlet remembered hearing her daddy say this a number of times.
Located at 106 West Main Street since April, Carole and Donnie Stewart started this business about three years ago.
“The name of the store is in memory of my daddy, I was definitely a daddy’s daughter,” Carole said.
The building that her business is currently located in is about 100 years old. The interesting part? Her dad, Russell Perry, owned Perry’s Hardware Shop for 70 years in the same location.
“He could fix anything that anyone handed to him. If he needed a part for a gun and it was too expensive, he would just make it himself,” Carole said proudly. “I had very talented parents that inspired me to open my own business.”
Carole’s mother, Ruth Perry, made dolls as a hobby.
“My mom would even design the clothes for the dolls she made. I have over 200 of her dolls, some are right here in the store.” Carole said, as she showed a couple of the dolls.
Throughout the store there are cabinets, shelves, and other décor that was once in her daddy’s shop so many years ago. Many of the items are more than 80 years old, and still in great shape.
“I had wanted to do something like this for a long time. At first Donnie thought I was crazy, but I had already made up my mind,” Carole said laughing.
Daddy’s Daughter Outlet has an antique and “homey” atmosphere.
“I’ve tried to use as much stuff that my daddy and other family members have used in the store,” Carole said. “Every piece of furniture has a different background.”
Carole remembered the way her daddy handled his business and how well he did.
“One of the best pieces of advice that I received from him, and that I remind myself everyday, is that in order to have a good business you always have to be honest and good to people. Buy at a good price, sell at a good price,” Carole reminisced.
The people that come in and out of the store are what make having a business worthwhile, she said.
“One thing I really enjoy is talking to the variety of people that come in,” Carole said. “Everyone is looking for something different, everyone has their own story.”
Just last week Daddy’s Daughter Outlet was part of Glam On Main.
“There were five of us stores on Main Street that got together and had sales on merchandise and good music was played. It was fun and a huge success. I am already anticipating next year’s event,” Carole said.
Along with owning her own business, Carole also paints and does woodworking and flower arrangements.
“It’s a hobby of mine. Whenever the store starts to look a little bare, I just add another flower arrangement, it makes me happy.” Carole said smiling.
Daddy’s Daughter Outlet is open Tuesday-Friday from 11 a.m.-5 p.m. and on Saturdays from 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
