It is unique and unexpected store on Prospect Street off the usual beaten path of downtown Greenwich with plenty of free parking.
The General Store of Greenwich is actually the result of the creative forces of 3 women who have brought their talents together under one roof. The 3 businesses happily co-habitat in a space filled with "home decor, fashion, accessories, linens and more."
Meet Arlene Louise Tynan, Lonnee Gayle Star and Karen Callan who have come to Greenwich to bring us a shopping experience that is anything but "general."
Tynan has an obsession for beautiful things. After a career in women's fashion, she has evolved to offer handmade crocodile bags, exotic jewelry of semi-precious stones and accessories. She frequents antique shows both here and in Europe to seek out great gift items, such as striking knitted mink vest.
French antique linens is one of Star's specialities. Her section carries unusual items like Limoges oyster plates, divine tea sets, custom cashmere dog beds and the printed paper luxuries of Paper Nosh by Paulette Kinney. Star's motto is; "we are our best company ... why not nurture yourself with things of beauty?"
She proudly offers a line of European luxury linens by Pandora de Balthazar as well as Hungarian goose down pillows which are so comfortable and supportive, you will feel like you are on a floating cloud.
"Timeless" custom made fashion accessories are Callan's passion. She describes her goods of unique jewelry, belts and one of a kind pieces as "mixtures of old and new; luxurious, practical and classical."
Callan offers unusual leather goods made from Italian and French leathers as well as exotic snake skins. She prides herself and thus her work on personal service calling her products a "reflection of what the customer wants." Her goal is to "produce something for the person."
"Who are our guests?" asks Star. "I am my best guest." Perhaps that best sums up the outlook of the trio — savvy businesswomen who sought to bring antiques and fine things to Greenwich to "nourish the soul' at "prices that reflect today's economy."
The General Store of Greenwich, located at 154 Prospect St., is open Monday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. (203) 923-8808.
