Greenery back where they began, down on Main Street

Donna Shupe, owner of Greenery Floral Creations and Mac's Trophy Case, begins decorating the store's Christmas tree after making the move from Kilgore Street to 212 East Main. Her daughter, Katherine, offered assistance. The new tenant of 212 East Main Street is a long-time member of the downtown Kilgore community. The Greenery Floral Creations and Mac's Trophy Case are back on Main Street — where they started out 35 years ago — with an expanded line of merchandise, in a much bigger space.

With an extra 3,000 square feet, Donna Shupe, Greenery owner, is excited to introduce a broadened line of candles, beaded jewelry, homemade fudge and handbags, as well as an extended variety of greenery and floras.

"I am excited to introduce Troll Beads, which are hand created in Denmark," Shupe said. "I have selected one bead that I feel is representative of Kilgore and there are many more to choose from to represent a multitude

Another jewelry option new to downtown is Kelly Colleen Stretch Rings.

"They are like a slinky in your finger," Shupe said. "When we found these I got excited, because I like to offer unique items."

Shupe is also proud to offer more than 85 candle scents, crystal gifts and Christmas gifts.

Also new to downtown, Shupe offers floral design classes.

"I just had one class with Evergreen Garden Club, where we made fall wreaths," Shupe said. "The class went well and I think everyone had a good time."

Since the expansion, the floral design shop has had to create two now positions to make the transition and to keep up with expected foot traffic.

"This move should evoke a nostalgic feeling for those who remember the business on Main Street years ago." Fallon Burns, Main Street manager, said. "I think this business is a great addition to downtown."

Burns said that so far each and every shop in the Main Street district has something different to offer.

The Greenery should have a beautiful storefront and make Main Street even more attractive," Burns said.

Shupe — third-generation owner — operates the store with the assistance of Mac Blackstone, her father; Alan Blackstone, her brother, and Katherine and Robert Shupe, her daughter and husband respectively.

"We are all glad to be back on Main Street where we started out 25 years ago," she said.