Two stores move into Duncan’s building in CdA
Two major events in people’s lives – their weddings and their purchase of a house – are the focus of new occupants of a landmark building on Fourth Street in Coeur d’Alene.
Several years ago, Duncan’s Garden Store and its greenhouses kept the 1900 block busy on Fourth Street. When it moved and was followed by neighboring auto sales businesses, the street became quiet except for the passing traffic. Now the abandoned parcels and buildings are recognized for their affordability, so once again they are filling with life.
Two wedding stores and the North Idaho Building Contractors Association have filled the completely renovated Duncan’s building at 1928 N. Fourth.
“It’s a one-stop wedding shop,” said Becky Applegate of the combined Affordable Elegance Bridal & Rental Boutique and the Tuxedo Gallery stores. “You can get everything you need for the wedding, including the minister, photographer and the place!”
This includes everything the wedding party wears, whether by purchase or by rental. Also available are the decorations and referral information for anything else associated with a wedding, from catering to music and a reception. In a few weeks, a room in the building will be available for small weddings and corporate events, and by next year an outdoor area on the property can be used.
“Affordable” is the key word for the business’s name, Applegate said. Bridal gowns are under $800 and flower girls’ dresses are under $100. Originally from St. Paul, Minn., she came to North Idaho from southern Idaho 17 years ago. Tuxedo Gallery owner Gene Slater is from Spokane.
The wedding stores combine for about 3,000 square feet and are open 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. weekdays and 10 to 4 Saturdays. They have six employees. Phone Affordable Elegance (which moved from five blocks north) at 664-8847 and Tuxedo Gallery (moving from Sunset Mall) at 664-6750.
With the Parade of Homes, the NIBCA’s busiest event of the year, occurring through this weekend, the builders group chose a hectic time to move last week.
The group of about 215 members includes building contractors, subcontractors and businesses associated with the building industry such as landscaping companies, title companies and banks. The place is run by Chris Rogers, executive officer, and assistant Cassie Worth. Bob Grossglauser is NIBCA president.
The 34-year-old NIBCA has 2,800 square feet, including a meeting room, in the building. It is affiliated with state and national building groups to promote the building business, organize special events and advocate for builders with a political action committee. Hours are 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 9 to 2 Fridays. Phone 765-5518.
Cash Store on Mullan
Of course, to use any of the above businesses you need a few bucks. To get some, you can try the Cash Store, which opened Tuesday at 3134 Mullan Ave., Post Falls. The payday loan company offers customers short-term loans for checks dated on their next payday. With headquarters since 1996 in Irving, Texas, the company has 150 stores. Two employees have the Post Falls store open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. weekdays and 10 to 2 Saturdays. Phone 773-2274.
Mental health clinic open
Four counselors and Dr. Albert Crook, psychologist, are employees of a mental health clinic that opened as a new service of Moore Support Services at 202 E. Anton Ave., Coeur d’Alene. The 5-year-old business also includes medical billing services and psycho-social rehabilitation casework. It is affiliated with Coeur d’Alene Pediatrics.
Owner Lynn Moore and Director Rita Smith have 17 employees. Hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays and by appointment. Phone 676-0472.
Sysco building project starts
With a project value of more than $4.7 million, Sysco Food Services started construction of its 140,000-square-foot building near Beck Road and Interstate 90, Post Falls.
The company will have 150-200 employees after it opens in April. It is the nation’s largest food distribution company, working primarily with institutions and organizations. Its headquarters is in Houston.