It's Happening: Update on the Downtown Retail Scene
By Julie Perine on October 05, 2024 from It’s Happening
As you stroll down Main Street, Bridgeport, you will encounter several changes pertaining to the small business scene. Let’s start at the Benedum Civic Center and head East. Just next to the Dairy Queen, the new Crunch Time Gourmet Popcorn and Apples (154 West Main) will open this month. Formerly the DQ party room, the business – exclusive to our city – is owned and operated by DQ owner Lindsey Keith.
The next retailer we encounter is HempWorks (142 West Main), owned by Mary Frances Smith. The store, formerly located in Anmoore, returned to Main Street about a year ago to occupy the former My Little Cupcake bakery. Featuring CBD products and so much more – from décor and jewelry to quality wood pieces which can be personalized in such a cool way – the store has been well received as
part of the new Main Street corridor and is the perfect place to pick up gifts or something special for you.
part of the new Main Street corridor and is the perfect place to pick up gifts or something special for you.
Just a few feet away is the new SunmoonApparel store (136 West Main). Owner Kaitlin Glaspell fell in love with the space for its rustic charm and moved her store, which for the past five years has been at 202 East Main Street in the old Country Peddler space. SunmoonApparrel draws customers from throughout the area who love the curated selection of upcycled clothing, as well as wellness products and local artisan items.
Two doors down – in the same building – is The Gryphon’s Nest gaming store and center (130 West Main). Having just
opened in February at the former DeNuzzo's Deli, owner Chris Griffin decided to move next door in August after it became available when Music on Main closed its doors. Gamers gather to play Pokemon, Dungeons and Dragons and several other games for which cards and other accessories can be purchased right there at The Gryphon’s Nest.
opened in February at the former DeNuzzo's Deli, owner Chris Griffin decided to move next door in August after it became available when Music on Main closed its doors. Gamers gather to play Pokemon, Dungeons and Dragons and several other games for which cards and other accessories can be purchased right there at The Gryphon’s Nest.
Across the Lloyd Lang Bridge is Main Street Pop-Up (110 West Main). Owned by Lisa Lang, the downstairs space which used to house her store About You Monograms – is now utilized as a space where entrepreneurs can launch their business ideas – trying out their products or services with the 
public. Occupying the space in the past has been Maria Skidmore’s Mama Maria Italian specialties,Suzanne Andre's Mary Kay, Torchia's Italian Pastries, and Linked permanent jewelry.
public. Occupying the space in the past has been Maria Skidmore’s Mama Maria Italian specialties,Suzanne Andre's Mary Kay, Torchia's Italian Pastries, and Linked permanent jewelry.
Cross the street to find Market on Main, which just a few months ago changed ownership. Now running the collection of artisan shops are Lily Kunning, Oberyn Kunning, Corum Wood, and Aaron Jones, all who fill a specialty niche within the business which in addition to artisan wares, features an apothecary grocery, freshly prepared meals, soda fountain and hand-dipped ice cream. An herbalist, farmer and educator, Lily Kunning also teaches an array of
classes on site.
classes on site.
Back to the other side of Main Street and just across Center Street is About You Monograms. In addition to custom monograming by Katherine Hughes, owner Lisa Lang showcases a diverse line of products, from holiday and seasonal décor to kitchen items, baby and children’s products and gifts for anyone on your list.
The next retailers encountered while traveling East are Mountain Mama Magick, The Muse Effect and Moon’s Aura (202 East Main). The trio of businesses - owned by Whitney Oliverio, Casey Maxwell and Jessica White, respectively - all feature a holistic atmosphere, collectively offering 
products, herbal remedies and services. Part of that building is available for lease as that’s where until just a few weeks ago SunmoonApparel was located.
products, herbal remedies and services. Part of that building is available for lease as that’s where until just a few weeks ago SunmoonApparel was located.
Across the street is The Dugout (143 East Main), a sport memorbelia store that has created a valid following since opening just months ago. Sports cards, collectibles and some very unique finds are available for purchase, as well as custom framing.
Several blocks East was, until recently the home of Artworks, a well-established gift shop and custom framing service. Owned by Lotus MacDowell, the store just relocated to Shaner Drive in White Oaks, where it will continue its reputation for carrying great lines of products including décor, kitchenware, baby items, jewelry, apparel and more. The new store opening has been delayed but it is expected to open its doors very soon.
While enjoying the downtown shops of Bridgeport, stop in and visit the quality eateries along the path including East of Chicago Pizza, Almost Heaven Desserts, Winnie’s Café, China One, Della’s Deli, T&L Hotdogs, Oliverio’s and Hello Vietnam.
See a Youtube video below featuring a portion of Main Street and look for another video featuring the remaining stores coming soon.
Want to know more about our Main Street retailers? Read Connect-Bridgeport stories here:
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