She Magazine JULY 2016 | Page 26

Shop Talk in every issue Story by Ashley Elvington • Photography by Laura McBryde Gainey UNCOMMONLY Southern with Kelley Hyman A fter 15 years of being a stay-at-home mom, Kelly Hyman was ready to return to the work force. With an education in art, Kelly has always had a passion for things vintage and old, as well as for creating and for making things new. After running a booth at an antique mall for several years, Kelly had the opportunity to carry Chalk Paint®, but only if she had a shop…So begins the story of Uncommonly Southern. Choosing a name for her business was rather simple: Customers can find rather “uncommon” things, and Kelly is proud of her Southern heritage. “Put the two together, and you have Uncommonly Southern!” Doors officially opened in 2013, and Kelly couldn’t have been more thrilled to share her business with Florence County. “The principles upon which my life and the lives of my family are founded are the basis of Uncommonly Southern - God first. Every aspect of the business has been bathed in prayer from day one. If He is first, everything else will follow as it should.” Just as any legendary Southern woman, Kelly declares that her faith is the center of her very being. “We rely on God. We base our decisions about the business on prayer and look for His direction in what we do. The reason we are where we are now is an interesting one, but I can tell you for sure it is a God thing.” One of Kelly’s many prayers for her business is for it to be successful in 28 JULY 2016 the long run, while growing in size and reputation. “We want to be a place where customers come to browse for antiques, collectibles, and quality furniture, but also where they feel welcome and will want to return again and again. We do this by providing a clean and welcoming atmosphere and by continuing to search out unusual and quality items for our shop.” She also practices the Golden Rule and takes joy in providing a warm and friendly environment. “We believe if you treat others fairly and with kindness and compassion, you are a success.” Kelly is not only setting an example for her co-workers and customers, but also for her children. “I hope we are passing down a legacy of putting God first always, treating others well, and not letting fear prevent you from following your dreams. I think it was Jackie Kennedy who said, ‘If you fear it, do it. It is the best way to conquer your fears.’ ” Amongst the “oddities” found within the antiques and collectibles, there are repurposed items. In addition, there are custom furniture paintings and workshops that are also offered. Of course, there’s also their(left) number one Amanda and Holland item - Chalk Paint®. “It is a great paint that is designed for painting furniture and accessories.” Currently, Uncommonly Southern is the only “stockist” of Chalk Paint® in the Pee Dee region. As Kelly says, you never know what you will find waiting for you. continued. . . SHEMAGAZINE.COM