Willow Creek Gifts has New Owner
Jo Parker at WillowCreek Jacksonville
In mid-November, Jo Parker bought Willowcreek Gifts on California Street from mother and daughter Susan and Jennifer Stanley. The duo owned the shop for 14+ years, running it together most of that time. In 2008, the Stanley’s moved Willowcreek to Jacksonville from the Shops at Exit 24 in Phoenix, where they developed a loyal customer base. “The timing with Jo could not have been more perfect for us,” says Susan. “My hair styling business at the Lock House Hair Salon in Jacksonville is booming and my daughter Jennifer really wanted to go back to school, so this is a win-win-win situation.” Two days after the closing, Jennifer started cosmetology school and plans to start her own business in spring, 2013 when her schooling is complete.
For Jo Parker, this is her first retail venture after a 20+ year career as a sales representative and marketing consultant. “I became interested in owning my own store a few years ago when my good friend Bethany Mulholland asked me to work part time at Bijou in Jacksonville. She was my inspiration and I know she’s smiling and watching over me now. Bethany owned Bijou and Picos with her husband Michael Richardson and was incredibly talented. I hope to make her proud.” (Bethany passed away in November, 2008.)
Review readers will recognize Jo as the co-publisher of the Jacksonville Review, a role she will keep. “I plan to continue as the Review’s online and social media editor, which is something I’m sure I can handle during slower periods in the store.” Over the last five years, Jo not only redesigned and modernized the Review, but created and administered the website, developed its social media presence on Facebook and Twitter and created the Review’s digital info kiosk in the Beekman Bank. “Luckily, all of my technical and marketing experience is converging and will come in handy for increasing Willowcreek’s exposure in the community and online,” she notes.
Jo will receive professional merchandizing and staging assistance from Cheryl VonTress, a Jacksonville interior designer and Review columnist. In exchange for merchandizing help, a portion of the store will feature VonTress’ line of “Hospitality Centrale” linens, candles and tableware. “I needed help in this area and called Cheryl before anyone else. Luckily for me, she was thrilled to help and as excited as me!”
Parker notes, “I am really grateful to live and work in this town and wish to thank everyone for their encouragement and support, especially the other merchants who have welcomed me with open arms.”
Willowcreek Jacksonville is located at 115 W. California Street. 541-899-5590, www.facebook.com/WillowCreekJacksonville, or joparker27@gmail.com.
She has also been active in many community organizations and currently serves on the boards of the Jacksonville Cemetery Commission and Parking Commission and has just accepted an invitation to be a board member of the Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce. In addition, she is an active volunteer with the Medford Food Project as a Neighborhood Coordinator and was part of the marketing team for the World of Wine Festival.