279 Gardners Neck Road
Swansea, MA 02777
Phone: (508) 678-4448
E-mail: info@thebloominbarn.com
Fax: (508) 676-3683
A walk thru our barn is like a step back in time. Built in 1850, the historic barn is the perfect setting to display our many interesting and necessary items for a country primitive home. We are constantly searching for unique and one of a kind items to help you create that perfect primitive touch.
Our Pond and Garden Center has everything you need to build and maintain a backyard pond of any size, including expert advice and assistance. We also carry a large selection of annuals, perennials, hanging baskets, container gardens, vegetable plants, herbs, garden accents, statuary, stepping stones, and much more. We’re open year round and products vary by season.
How long has your shop been open?
We’ve been in business for more than 20 years, but it was only about 10 years ago that I really got into country primitives.
What type of experience are your customers looking for when they come to your shop?
I think they’re looking to shop in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. I also think they appreciate personal attention and knowledgeable answers to their questions.
Do you establish friendly relationships with your customers? If so, is that important?
It’s very important. A good part of my business comes from repeat customers and word of mouth.
What advantages do you believe a small country shop has over large shops?
In my case, one advantage would be the merchandise we carry. About 90% is made in America, and hand picked by me. My customers know they can find items that they couldn’t find in larger shops. 
Do you have a guiding philosophy?
Being honest and up front with the customer. It may not always result in a sale, but in the long run, if a customer trusts your opinion they’ll keep coming back.
Do you have any advice for shop owners & artisans on weathering a poor economy
For shop owners I would say to look for areas to trim, in ways that won’t be immediately obvious to the customer. I think customers expect to see something new and different each time they visit. If nothing really changes, they’ll eventually just stop coming.
If it’s necessary to decrease inventory, try rearranging your shop to give it a fresh new appearance.
What are some effective (& economical) ways to let customers know about your shop?
I advertise in The Country Register, Country Sampler, and direct mail 
Please describe your shop, what makes it unique?
My business is located in a large 2 story barn built in 1850. I specialize in
American made, hand crafted country primitive items.
What is your decorating style?
Country Primitive
Why do you think staging or creating vignettes are important?
Sometimes people can’t visualize how something will look in their home. Showing the item in a setting helps them to do that.
Is it important to love what you do/buy?
Yes. I think it’s especially true when you deal in a specific style, like country primitives.
I don’t buy anything that I wouldn’t put in my own home.
What American handcraft sells well in your shop?
Reproduction primitive furniture, lighting and candles
How do you find good American artists/vendors?
I go to several shows a year.
Can you recommend any good shows, literature, magazines and books for creative inspiration?
Shows: Market Square and Heritage Markets
Magazines: Early American Life and Mercantile Gatherings
Books: Judy Condon’s Country Decorating Books
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