In an age where consumers are drastically shifting their buying to the internet, we look into a downtown Lewisburg shop next to Food & Friends, called Harmony Ridge Gallery (HRG). In this article, you’ll learn how this busy retail store stays ahead of the game by giving you a memorable experience that may enrich your lifestyle.

Our purpose is to make the creations of American artists available to the public. Our joy is having the opportunity to do so.

What is Harmony Ridge Gallery’s history?
HRG in Lewisburg came to life in 2004. Our mission to bring American handmade art & craft to the general public, on a daily basis, began back in 1997 in Fort Lauderdale, FL. In a small 900 square foot retail space, which we named Harmony Isle Gallery, we took our first steps. Once we found our way to Lewisburg, we were excited to open Harmony Ridge Gallery. The building once housed Hanna Chevrolet and then True Value Home Center. After a 4-month remodel, the doors opened as a 5,000 square foot American Art & Craft Gallery.

Do you make changes to the decor often?
Yes, it is an ever-changing space. We are constantly 1.) moving products around while introducing new merchandise, 2.) regularly adding new fixtures, lighting, displays, & repairing walls, etc. & 3.) presenting new statement pieces, such as the current 7-foot pirate made entirely out of metal parts, ie: wrenches, bike chains, bat, etc. A propane tank on it’s back sets the pirate’s torch on fire!

How does HRG create customer value?
Time and time again you will hear an HRG client say that “It feels so comfortable and inviting in the gallery…I love learning about the items I purchase and about the artist who created them”. In other words, we provide an ‘experience’ that you can’t find on-line. Not only do we make a concerted effort to make HRG a visually stimulating venue, but we also enhance it with great music along with a welcoming & knowledgeable staff. The customer experience adds another layer of interest to the unique American made merchandise that fills the shelves, floors & walls of the gallery.

HRG offers complimentary gift wrap, shipping services, gift & wedding registry, customized personal & corporate gifts & special orders.

Why do people choose to shop with you versus shopping online?
In a world of “disconnect”, HRG creates a place where a customer can feel in touch with a small business. Also, in touch with the artists who create the items they purchase and in touch with a creative environment that they can enjoy.

How does HRG remove potential barriers to switch the shopper’s curiosity to purchase?
The main barrier is the one you can’t see: leaving our customer completely alone to discover the gallery. Of course, everyone who steps into HRG is greeted since we want everyone to feel welcome & recognized. We then allow our customer to have a moment to explore & begin to show interest in certain items. We then make sure to share the story behind the piece, how it was made, who made it & why. Telling the story allows us to create a connection between customer & gallery & artist. Often times, this dynamic process takes a customer from curiosity to purchase.

How do you keep an edge to your store?
We pride ourselves in selecting both whimsical and classic pieces in all price ranges. HRG has two goals: 1.) To have something for everyone and 2.) To offer the most unique and well-crafted American made art & craft.

HRG’s focus is American made products. Tell us more.
In a world of mass production, HRG brings you uniquely American made. For example, we have pieces of beautifully glazed pottery, delicate jewelry, and whimsical wall clocks that are all created by individuals in their small studios or garages somewhere in the US. If you become the owner of such an item, you can be sure that very few others own that same piece.

This December, HRG is open 7 days. Mon thru Sat 10am to 6pm. Sun 11am to 4pm. Call 304-645-4333 for extended hours Dec 10 thru Dec 24.

– LBSPY 21 (Dec 3-17)