Four-year-old Jayln walks up to customers as they enter the store and strikes up conversations.

“She’s really good at that,” her grandmother, Teresa Springfield said.  “She loves talking to them about items we have in the store.”  Springfield is the owner of the new Doodle Bugs gift shop located on Stemley Bridge Road in Pell City that opened in April.

Springfield and her husband, Mark decided to take a leap of faith when they started the business. Springfield opened the shop with the hopes of bringing a unique treasure to Pell City and has enjoyed watching it grow.

The inspiration:  “There are not very many gift shops in the area.  We are big fans of Gatlinburg and love going to all of the shops there.”

All in the family: “My husband Mark finds unique, one-of-a kind pieces to sell.  My daughter Kristina gives me lots of ideas.  My mom makes a lot of the kids clothes like the pillowcase dresses.”

Starting a business in Pell City: “The people here have been amazing to us.  The Block Party was a huge success for us.  We enjoyed everyone we met.”

Finding the perfect gift: “We try to find things that are unique.  My friend Brenda goes to craft fairs and finds things for the shop.  A lot of our gifts are handmade, and most of the artists who sell items in the shop are local to Alabama.  You may come in here one time and see something you like, and the next time you come in it might be gone.”

Giving it a personal touch:  “We can customize anything.  Customers just have tell us what they’re looking for, and we’ll go find it.  We are always open to suggestions.”

Bestsellers: “People really like the dessert candles and the Pritzi jewelry made by Michelle Smith.  I think the jewelry is a big hit because it’s different and it’s lightweight.”

Work of art: “We are going to start offering painting classes on Tuesdays and Thursdays for all ages beginning July 3.  It costs $25 for a 16×20 canvas.  Kevin Whitman who owns the Whitman Gallery and Studio in Childersburg will teach classes.  People will learn how do paintings of the American flag and a cross.”

Advice for starting a business: “Put together a business plan before you ever get started.  A business plan is key.  Check all avenues.  There are more grants out there than people realize.  Do your research.  Figure out what kind of business you want to have, figure out what other people are looking for and look at the competition out there.”

Balancing act:  “I work two jobs.  I am a bookkeeper at Camp Cosby, so I have not been able to do this full time, but I enjoy the flexibility of owning my own business.