behind the counter | 2012 87 Kelly Blackwell M ore than three years and a recession Blackwell, who stays open for downtown events later, Two Doors Down owner Kelly and supports charitable events with loans of Blackwell is delighted to have weathered clothing or donations. Her front windows see new the travails of opening a new business displays every week, which she counts as part of and the dangers of a slow economy. her success. “I believe in downtown,” she says. “I “The economy is breeding entrepreneurs because anticipate another growth spurt.” jobs are scarce and people are doing what they’ve But mostly, it’s Blackwell’s natural extroversion always wanted to do,” says Blackwell, a former that creates the friendly atmosphere. “I love insurance broker who dreamed of owning her own meeting new people,” she says. “I learned from 100 East Main Street, Suite R3 Spartanburg boutique. “I’m proud to be one of them.” my first job that customer service comes first.” 864.582.0850 The colorful boutique features versatile women’s Blackwell’s two shih tzus, Cooper and Carly, are informal retail mascots, and she welcomes Monday-Friday 11am-6pm clothing at reasonable prices, from trendy to Saturday 11am-4pm classic, plus great accessories. Its location at Main customers’ canine companions to the store. Women’s Boutique and Church has spawned a love of downtown for Photograph by: Carri Bass