Genoa gift shop celebrates a decade

The Genoa Trading Co., a small artisan shop next to the Genoa Bar, is turning 10 this summer and is celebrating with a host of customer specials throughout August.

"I'm just trying to give back to the people who've kept me in business," owner Christine Cole said.

Having started the business a decade ago, Cole has built her reputation on what she calls "handmade unique items."

"I try to keep a store where you don't see the same stuff everywhere," she said. "If someone comes in here, I want them to see something they won't see at every other gift shop."

Genoa Trading Co. offers Pendleton blankets and handbags, Native American and Western collectibles, silver, copper, amber, Zuni and Navajo jewelry and garden accessories.

"We sell tons of jewelry," Cole said. "It's a good thing to be next to the bar because when the husbands go in there to drink, the women come in here."

Cole prides herself on selling many products made in the U.S.

"It's the one big thing I claim," she said. "I have products from a handful of local artists, and almost everything is made in the U.S. with a few exceptions."

Cole said having a small store has allowed her to keep prices low and weather the economy.

"Most of my business is tourist-based; I get a lot of people from Reno," she said. "I do get some locals, especially when people have family in town and come out here to shop.

"Business has been good for me. I'm still here, and I have no complaints."

To celebrate its anniversary, the store will be offering customers specials and deals each Saturday this month, including free gift bags for the first 10 customers who make a purchase, a 5-percent discount for those who bring in cans of dog or cat food for the Douglas County Animal Welfare Group, and a chance to win raffle prizes with each $10 purchase.

Genoa Trading Co. is located at 2282 Main St. Business hours are 11:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sundays.

Call 783-0091 for more information.