WILLIAMSBURG 一 After nearly four decades in Merchant Square, Joan Fenton will close J. Fenton on May 25 as she steps back to focus on family, music and her Charlottesville store.
“Before I did the business, I used to support myself as a musician. When I opened the first store, I became a balladier in Williamsburg. I really want to go back to playing more music and having more time for myself and family,” Fenton said
J. Fenton is known for quilts and quilted goods, decorative pillows and linens, home accents, jewelry and boutique gifts. Fenton previously had two stores in Williamsburg, the other being Quilts Unlimited and J. Fenton Gallery. In 2015, the two stores were combined into one offering a wider variety of merchandise. Six years ago, the store moved to its current location on Duke of Gloucester Street.
She said she decided to close the store to slow down and focus on her Charlottesville location, where she lives.
Fenton also said she wanted to take care of her staff as the store winds down. Employees have received extra pay over the past month or will receive a significant bonus.
Reflecting on her years in retail, Fenton offered advice to others considering the field.
“Be prepared to work hard and more hours than you think you will and really know that you love doing it,” is Fenton’s advice to anyone who wants to enter the retail market.
Fenton will be keeping her location in Charlottesville and the website will stay online. The store is having a sale currently on merchandise with a large “blow out” sale on May 21.
