Business & Tech
Great Escape: A Gift Shop, Classroom, Art Gallery in One
Walk through the door of Laughin' Ladies and you will find an array of handmade custom items, ranging from jewelry to artwork.
Cathy Belton was looking for something new to sink her teeth into.
The Valrico resident worked with her husband, a dentist, for many years but always knew she wanted to do something different.
An artist and now a business woman, Belton did just that last November when she opened Laughin’ Ladies, a gift store, art gallery, classroom and studio in one. Now she is the boss and wears all the hats.
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“It was something I had been thinking about and wanting to do for a number of years,” Belton said. “I worked with my husband (local dentist William K. Belton) for many years, but it’s a challenge being a sole proprietor,” Belton said.
“When you work as a dentist you have other staff in the office, but I wear all the hats here. I’m the business person, the marketing person and the buyer. The biggest challenge is just trying to keep it all going but also being able to enjoy it," she said.
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Walk through the door at 800 Lumsden Rd. in the La Viva Plaza and you will find an array of handmade custom items, ranging from jewelry to artwork, furniture, charms, spiritual and meditative adornments, home decorations, clothing accessories and kitchen/glassware.
An artist for many years, Belton loves to create gourd art.
“I had a desire to create something, but I didn’t want to work in pottery. I wanted a ready-made vessel I could decorate. Then I was at an art festival in Ybor City and saw a gourd artist and a light bulb went off.
“With gourds you have a vessel that has already been created. Each one is unique; it’s a very organic form of art. There are so many things you can do with it.”
Belton’s advice for other budding entrepreneurs?
“Do something unique that allows you to follow your passion. Anytime you follow your passion, you will attract a clientele but you have to be patient. It does not happen overnight.”
Laughin’ Ladies’ hours are 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday to Thursday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday.
Call 813-689-0131, e-mail info@laughinladies.com or visit the store’s website.
