By WESLIE STRATTON
Moapa Valley Progress
The Mesquite Chamber of Commerce celebrated a ribbon cutting with new local business The Amused Owl on May 24. The specialty store offers gifts, toys, novelty items and accessories to residents of the area.
Owner and operator Wendy Hapgood said that most of the merchandise is geared toward children.
“I focus on children’s educational toys,” she said, adding that items include quiet time books, art projects, puzzles and more.
When selecting items to sell, Hapgood said that she searches for American-made and free trade products as well as products from other small businesses.
“We don’t want to have what everyone else has,” she said.
Other unique gift items include bags made out of repurposed military tents and candles from a company that donates to charity from the purchase of each candle.
According to the business’s website, the ultimate goal is to help shoppers “explore and celebrate education, expression, creativity and individuality.”
“We pride ourselves in finding that special something,” the site states. “…Most of all we are here to help you celebrate YOU and those most precious to you.”
Aside from providing goods for sale Hapgood said that she hosts children’s activities once a month on Saturdays. She said that activities are announced on the business Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/amusedowl/ as well as on the website amusedowl.com.
Originally from San Diego, Hapgood lived with her husband and children in Connecticut. The family moved to St. George, UT for the health of one of their children from 1999 to 2001. After that they moved back to Connecticut. Hapgood said that after the kids grew up she and her husband planned to move back to St. George but decided to settle in Mesquite instead.
“We’re very happy here!” she said.
Located at 561 W Mesquite Blvd. Ste 3, The Amused Owl is open Monday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., Friday from 11 a.m. to 8 a.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
