Today is the official grand opening of our new local Michaels store. But the doors were thrown open for a “soft” opening starting last Thursday night.
What’s appealing about a bigger store like this is a broad array of the many things a crafter might use. From minding ones Ps and Qs to yarn and art supplies there’s lots to choose from, a bigger selection than we’re used to locally.
And there’s a lot of stuff for home decor.
Michaels has a lot of everything and the employees seem like genuinely nice people. But I do hope that locals will remember to also support our own locally owned businesses like Doodlebugs, Karen’s Quilts, A Dropped Stitch, Local Yarn Shop, and Over the Fence. They are vital to the health of our community.
You will enjoy all Michael’s has to offer I’m sure, but you’re also right about supporting local businesses. It’s hard for the smaller stores to compete in terms of either content or price. The first Michael’s we ran into was about 1982 in The Woodlands, Texas. Lois thought it was very cool. We have one here in Ocala, but also have a Hobby Lobby which is owned by that crazy, ultra-right-wing Green family from Oklahoma, so I prefer not to do business with them. But, they are cheaper than Michael’s and have a better selection of Christmas ribbon, or so I’m told! 🙂
Crafters will love this store but you’re right, don’t forget the local shops. Those shops probably have stuff that Michael’s doesn’t have. My wife used to teach in a yarn store and the items they sold wouldn’t be found in a giant box store. Local is best, you pay a little more but you are supporting a local business that benefits everyone in the community.
It looks well stocked. The sign’s the same as the ones we have here.
Michaels should do well, but you have your finger on a big issue. The small local stores are often imperiled when a big box competitor comes to town. They need to up their service and uniqueness. Our local hardware stores, for example, do fine despite Home Depot and Lowe’s because they have friendly clerks who can find anything.
Indeed there is a lot in Michaels – I often find myself befuddled by so many choices – and so many items calling out “buy me – buy me – buy me”, and I’ve sadly watched people as they’ve overspent and then were immediately remorseful as they left the store. I do have to say – I’ve found the paint that I like to paint smooth river rocks with, at Michaels, and in colors I’ve never been able to find anywhere – so some good – some not so good with the big box stores. I do like the personal service of a smaller store, when I can find what I need.