Weekly Connections with Brian Lafontaine July 27, 2025
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Sandwiched between W Moore Avenue and W Center Avenue on Broad Street in Mooresville – which is one block west of Main Street – is the home of ELEVEN small businesses owned by women.
For several years, the buildings were dormant with only three small businesses on the entire block where Mooresville’s Ice Cream Parlor is located: The Gingered Farmhouse, Zelle Salon and Spun Wax. Gradually, new businesses moved in and set up shop! Now– the block is flourishing.
As the block filled up with new and unique shops, the owners began to engage with each other and they soon discovered — they are ALL women! Some were first time owners – some were new to the Mooresville area — others had years of experience.
On a regular basis, they stopped to chat with each other and brainstorm about how they could promote awareness for ALL of the businesses on their block of Broad Street.
“Everyone is very passionate about their businesses, growing them and helping each other out as much as possible,” states Nikki Ketring owner of Paige Turner Boutique. “Even though there are two salons, a couple of clothing boutiques, and two home decor stores all on the same street — on the same block — there is not a sense of competition; as a result, we – together — have created what we call our MOTTO – ‘Community Over Competition’.”
“Bethany (who owns The Gingered Farmhouse) and I chatted one day and joked that we should be called Broad Street Broads,” grinned Paige Turner Boutique owner Nikki Ketring, “and the name just stuck. We’re very lucky to have each other.”
“I love being a part of ‘The Broads on Broad’,” states Katie Smtih (owner of Katie’s Sweat Shop.) “We are all such friendly and caring ladies and passionate about small business.”
Katie Smith – 156-A North Broad St. – (704) 657-5728- https://www.facebook.com/katiessweatshop
There is a lot offered at this fabulous exercise facility – including — private, one on one personal training and group fitness classes – beginners are welcome. Plus – keep your eye on the calendar for combined events with other businesses on Broad St.
Katie Smith is more than a certified personal trainer; she holds a Masters in Exercise Physiology and a Bachelors in Nutrition Sciences. She is a certified Menopause Fitness Specialist and a certified Obesity Fitness Specialist.
“Lots of people workout to loose or maintain weight,” states Katie Smith. “I can definitely help anyone out in this area. However, there is more to exercise and working out than weight loss. For some it’s about improving overall health and well being, becoming more active, or starting a strength training program. I take time to meet with individuals, learn what their health goals are, then customize a workout plan that fits their needs.”
Sweet Dreams Mattress & Furniture employee Libra Pitts raves about Katie’s Sweat Shop. “One day while I was in Mooresville, I saw the word ZUMBA on a flyer so I went to the website and signed up for a class,” states Libra Pitts.
Libra Pitts has glowing praise for Katie’s Sweat Shop
“The atmosphere is so fun with the party lights and the floor is perfect for dancing.” Ms. Pitts goes regularly on Tuesday and Thursday evenings with her co-workers and friends. She claims gleefully, “It’s a great way to get exercise and have a good time too.”
Heather Driskell – 162 N Broad St, Suite B – (704) 664-0800 https://www.facebook.com/NCProvisionsCo
“Like most entrepreneur stories,” states owner Heather Driskell, “it started with a dream that has now become reality. Our goal is to support other small businesses by selling only North Carolina made products.” North Carolina Provisions carries a variety of items from across the state like beer and wine to snacks and jewelry to candles and crafts.
“If you can find it in large retail stores, you won’t see it on our shelves,” says Driskell. “We want to help the small mom and pops across North Carolina.”
On the 3rd Wednesday of every month, NC Provisions partners with Katie’s Sweatshop to offer half price beer and wine after the 6:30 pm to 7:30 pm yoga class. This is just another great example of how The Broad Street Broads support, encourage and promote each other.
Celebrate the 1st Anniversary of Katie’s Sweatshop on March 9th. There will be snacks, raffle prizes, and discounts available that day from 11am-5pm.
Nikki Ketring – 172 N Broad St. Suite 101 – (980) 255-9884 https://www.facebook.com/paigeturnerbooksandboutique
Originally, Nikki Ketring had a mobile Children’s Book Truck and traveled to local events; however, she quickly noticed that there were a lot of women’s boutique’s but not a lot of children’s clothes. As a result, she added children’s clothing to her inventory. “That is when the boutique part of my business began,” states Ms. Ketring.
After two years of successfully selling merchandise from her mobile truck and using her dining room table as an office, her husband patiently asked when the family was going to get the dining room table back for family meals. “That was when I made the decision to start looking for a brick and mortar storefront,” chuckles Ms. Ketring.
She opened Paige Turner Books & Boutique three years ago and sells lovely women’s and children’s apparel, books, accessories and baby gifts too. In addition, she still does events with her mobile truck and tends to her online store. “It’s been hard work, but very rewarding.”
“I never could have expected what my life would be like when I made the decision to become a small business owner, but I’m so grateful and blessed with how it’s turned out so far – and I truly appreciate the camaraderie and support of The Broad Street Broads.”
Jakobie Jones – 176 N Broad St Suite 101 -980-362-1314
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100076068007015
“Being an entrepreneur is in my blood,” states Rustic Wagon owner Jakobie proudly.
Rustic Wagon Boutique is a ladies boutique – selling women’s clothing, accessories, handbags, and all things in between. Recently, the store added a small section of baby and kids clothing to their inventory plus accessories and knick knacks. This adorable boutique is a treasure.
“I come from a family of entrepreneurs,” says owner Jakobie Jones. “My grandma, my dad, and my aunt have all owned and operated successful businesses in different fields. Throughout high school I believed that I would further my education into the dental field. I graduated my junior year of high school and directly after that I started taking online college classes while working full time at my aunt’s boutique. An opportunity came available for me to start and open Rustic Wagon Boutique and I quickly realized that this is the path that I wanted to explore.” The unique part about the Rustic Wagon Boutique and the owner is that Jakobie Jones was only 17 when she opened this brick-and-mortar boutique. She is now 20-years-old and very successful in her endeavor. She also has a permanent jewelry artist and car freshie maker – which is impressive at any age!
Racheal Harris- 162 N Broad Street – (704) 473-5661 https://www.facebook.com/salonzele
Zele is more than just a Hair Salon
Mooresville resident Becky Prothro sings high praises for the entire block of shops on Broad Street. “I love the businesses on Broad Street and those friendly ladies who own them.” Ms. Prothro gives added attention and accolades to Racheal of Salon Zele.
Becky Prothro gets her hair styled at Salon Zele
“She does a great job with my hair and every time I get my haircut, I can’t pass up stopping in all the cute shops nearby. It’s my go to area for many of my gift needs for my friends and family. “
Although Racheal of Salon Zele & Lindsay of Spun Wax Studio work in the same building and share the “same space”, they are two different businesses – one is a salon and one is a wax studio.
This unique duo also has some fabulous artwork and décor sprinkled throughout the store. Definitely a wonderful place to visit and shop!
Lindsay Spenner – 162 N Broad St. Suite A -704-891-4092 – https://www.facebook.com/spunwaxstudio
“We are celebrating four years in business,” states Lindsay. For the fourth year in a row, Spun Wax Studio received a 100% on the State Board Salon Inspection. Congratulation!
Bethany Sage – 166 North Broad Street – 980-444-9151 https://www.facebook.com/thegingeredfarmhouse
The Gingered Farmhouse specializes in vintage inspired home decor and offers a huge array of choices for gifts too. Walking into this charming boutique “feels like home.” Customers sing high praises – giving 5 stars on reviews. It is definitely a place to shop for yourself, your home and for gifts to give friends and family.
“We help you create cozy spaces that make your house a home,” states owner Bethany Sage. “Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for upcoming events.”
Laura Rumple – 176 Broad St https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063549728583
Owner Laura Rumple is a Vocal Coach spotlighting “next level vocal training and artist development.” She specializes in one-to-one training, show choir for all ages, The Artist Academy Music Industry Events.
Her hours are by appointment only and her phone number is 704-677-3348.
Leigh – 108 N Broad St. https://www.instagram.com/thevaultbycg/
The Vault by The Cosmo Gypsy is on the opposite corner from Mooresville Ice Cream on Broad St. It is a fabulous boutique – their motto “elevated vintage, explore the creative soul and Art & Fashion for both. “
This unique shop is open Thursday – Saturday 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and by appointment only on Wednesdays.
The entrance to this parking lot is on W. Moore St which is very convenient for Broad Street shopping.
Kelly/Jess/Betty – 186 N Broad St Suite 102 – (980) 293-4333 https://www.facebook.com/wfvdesigns
This dynamic and elegant boutique is run by a trio of women. Because it is on the “backside” of Broad Street – it is often overlooked; however, that would be the shopper’s mistake. This is a MUST SEE store.
WFV Designs owners Jessica Leonhardt and Kelly Lail have full time jobs; as a result, they rely on Jessica’s mother – Betty — fondly called Momma L. More than likely – during the week — shoppers will find her behind the counter at WFV Designs.
Karissa Bergin 176 N Broad St suite 102 – To Book at Appointment – 704-251-0765
https://www.facebook.com/wildrosesalonnc
Also in the back at Broad Street Place – is a luxury, laid back full service hair salon called Wild Rose Hair Salon.
“We offer all hair services, coloring services, cuts, smoothing treatments, extensions, and more!” states owner Karissa Bergin. “I started Wild Rose Salon after being in the hair industry for 7 years. I thought downtown Mooresville would be a great salon location. I inquired about a space and the journey began! “
Wild Rose opened in January 2021 with Karissa being the only employee. After three years of being open, she now has seven total employees and will be opening Wild Rose Spa this year!
Pop up event with High Vibes tattoos, permanent jewelry, house plants, and more! She is also expanding her business with Wild Rose Spa coming early summer 2024.
Meet The Broad Street Broads’ Mascot – Beau – The Ladies and Loyal Customers call him “Beau on Broad.” He belongs to Heather of NC Provisions; however, shoppers might find him greeting customers at any of the shops on Broad Street.
Article and Pictures by Tesa Jones
Tesa Jones is a graduate of Elon College, now Elon University, a mother of two, a grandmother of five, and she currently resides in Mooresville with her husband. She is a published author, an avid blogger, and a passionate photographer. Learn more about Tesa Jones at www.booksbytesajones.com/book and contact her via:
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