By KATHY COPELAND / Community Columnist

Vincent/Harpersville

It’s “take two” for the Rusty Pearl. After a disappointing setback in June, the Rusty Pearl is back, and owner Ashley Buchanan celebrated with a casual lemonade and cookie open house on Saturday, Oct. 5.

“I was disappointed things didn’t work out at our previous location, but I’m happy here,” said Buchanan. “It’s been so much work, but this location really is perfect.”

This country mercantile located at 42339 Alabama 25 in Vincent is perfectly charming. It is a great place to browse for trinkets from days past or sweet handmade gifts from the locals.

Buchanan grew up in the small rural town of Vincent. It’s where she met her husband, and it is where together they are raising their children. Ashley serves as a substitute teacher at Vincent Middle High School, enjoys repurposing furniture and hunting for treasures at yard sales and any and everywhere else.

“I enjoy the process of making something look new, but my real love is staging a new find or creation to sell it,” said Buchanan. While admiring a white dresser, she grinned, “That is sold already, and I haven’t even had time to stage it.”

She explained that social media (Facebook and Instagram) helps her move merchandise quickly, but browsing in the shop is for the real treasure hunter.

“I feel bad I can’t accommodate all of our community’s artists, but I do consign a variety of local talents,” said Buchanan.

Dresses for young girls by “Jones and Jonesy” are popular and designed by local artist Codie Davis who explains the backbone of her business as “soft fabrics, fun prints and all things girly.” Her talents extend well beyond little dresses. Her artistry can also be found on newly designed T-shirts featuring a Vincent landmark.

Team spirit tees by Bespoke are big sellers according to Buchanan. Jessica Winn, inks soft Bella canvas tees in unique designs at reasonable price points.

Veterans Day is around the corner. Check out items by 13Fifty Flag Co., quality hand crafted rustic flags and more by Lee and April Carden.

As the holidays approach Sue Garrett (Cotton Stitches) has an assortment of handmade quilted pillows and Page Quinn makes children’s books from years past come to life as unique Christmas ornaments.

Quinn also paints holiday themed blocks, some of which never make it to the display table. Candy Corn blocks have apparently been a big seller. “There are a variety however that are on display, so come peek,” said Buchanan.

If you want to advertise that you like shopping for junk then Brittany Wills (IMRESSIONS by Brittany) has just the tee for you: ”Hello Junk.”

For a purchase with a purpose, check out the selection of Buttermilk Soaps by “Community Naturals” a non-profit company using the process of making soaps and candles to coach and teach life skills to the special-needs community.

The Rusty Pearl will also carry seasonal fruits and veggies and from time to time host special events. “I post daily on The Rusty Pearl Facebook page,” said Buchanan.

Kathy Copeland is a community columnist covering the Vincent/Harpersville area.