By JOYANNA LOVE/ Senior Staff Writer

The Chilton County Chamber of Commerce celebrated new member Down Home Furnishings with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Dec. 12.

Owner Kristie Brasher said she opened on Oct. 15 and joined the Chamber at the suggestion of her mother Janis Straub.

“I just wanted to try to open something up for people that would be a little bit more affordable,” Brasher said.

Straub, who lives in Tennessee, said she had heard good things about Chambers’ support of small businesses.

The store features a variety of home and gift items, including refurbished furniture, collectibles, antiques, Amish-crafted items, jewelry and beauty items.

Brasher said she also does heat press and embroidery designs.

Holiday-themed clothing was on display during the event.

“I want to try to carry a little bit of everything for everybody,” Brasher said.

She said she can also work to order specific things customers may want.

Since the October opening, Brasher said she has been working on getting the word out and things have been going well.

“We are trying to make it more noticeable,” Brasher said.

Down Home Furnishings is located at 1563 Seventh St. S.