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Caruso was raised and attended school in the village and owned and operated Festivities gift shop, a fixture on Main Street for 18 years, before downsizing to Charmed a year ago. For the longtime Hastings native, location was key to re-opening her current venture.
"I've lived in Hastings, went to school here and was in business most of my life before moving to Montrose," Caruso said. "When we closed Festivities, I had an opportunity to get this space. It's smaller and doesn't have to the big windows I love decorating, but we try to fill it with great things. I love being in the village."
Charmed is charming. Caruso's space reminds one of shops in vacation destinations near the shore. It's shelves are filled with tasty sweets, baubles and scarves, clothing and gift items for all ages. And Caruso specializes in gift baskets and party goods for all kinds of occasions.
"I really enjoy finding and selling interesting and fun things," Caruso said. "Holidays are a big part of our business. I love that we are able to share all the holidays with our customers. The memories, the village, being here where the family has been in different business over the years, makes it even better."
Charmed latest delight is Caruso's "candy pizza," a "pie" that has slices filled with several candies.
"I think you have to keep things fresh and always be looking for new, interesting fun items," Caruso said. "Everyone knows us in the village and we have lots of return business because customers know that we care about them. We'd love to have lots of new visitors come the Hastings an visit us."
Charmed is at 16 Main St. across from the village public parking lot.
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