Vinton’s Country Corner celebrated its official grand opening with a ribbon-cutting ceremony with the Vinton Area Chamber of Commerce on July 18. There was music and free hot dogs, which drew a large crowd. The store has been open for business since May 21.

Owners Greg and Lisa Mitchell said they chose the name of the store because: it’s in Vinton and on a corner at the intersection of Pollard Street, First Street, and Virginia Avenue, and because Vinton is still a small town with a country feel and their merchandise reflects that. They say the location at a gateway to downtown Vinton is perfect to draw customers to the store. The Mitchells noticed that the building was vacant back in the spring and jumped at the opportunity to open their business there.

The Mitchells are longtime residents of Vinton. He is the owner of Greg’s Honey Do List Inc. home improvements business, and actually had his start in the building that houses their new business. He says he has also been doing maintenance on the Vinton’s Country Corner building for six years. Greg’s Honey Do List offices are located in the basement.

Lisa Mitchell owns a business that markets “Lockets Full of Love” charms jewelry with about 40 designers. She is launching another business at the end of July named “Bag It Up.”  She previously operated a thrift shop business for eight years.

The new business is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. and closed on Sunday and Monday. The shop sells primitives, furniture, antiques, flags, candles, and yard sale items. They do gift-wrapping and sell on consignment as well.

Crystal Hofawger is a helper in the new store.