Ladies who lunch know all the great restaurants, and ladies who shop know it takes more than a quick-fix on a lunch hour to satisfy the need for a true retail therapy adventure.
In years past, those ladies who knew all the wonderful brunch spots also made a day of it when they shopped. Think back to your childhood and Saturdays shopping with your mom — she knew and appreciated the appeal of a relaxed downtown setting, where hustle and bustle were set aside for relaxed browsing and salespeople who knew her style and size when she walked in the door. Happily, Dalton’s Crossing in downtown King, NC, offers the familiar, nostalgic comforts of another time, while delivering the style and selection you need to welcome spring and summer!
Feeling confident when you walk out of the store with a new outfit is a feeling to be shared, and at Dalton’s Crossing, owners Joyce Mauldin-Ray and her husband, Wayne, make it possible to share that positive vibe with customers who become friends, then family, and know the 15-minute drive from Winston-Salem is well worth it.
A visit to Dalton’s Crossing is all about indulging yourself in a place that feels like home, and where the staff knows their customers well enough to be honest with them about fit, while helping assemble new outfits or simply freshening their current wardrobe. Browse their website (daltonscrossing.com), and you’ll notice their motto of “Think Big, Shop Small.” Not only have Joyce and Wayne fulfilled their dream of owning a small business in the area near where they grew up, but just a few years after the store opened in 2012, they were able to expand and purchase the adjacent building. Originally The Old Bank Building, circa early 1900s, this beautiful local landmark boasts brick exterior and interior walls, along with vintage décor that represents Joyce and Wayne’s life together. But their “big” dream is still focused on keeping it local and promoting not just their own store, but other small businesses in the area as well. With their in-store staff consisting of three part-time employees, Stephanie, Tami, and Amy, there’s a wealth of knowledge and team spirit that shines at Dalton’s Crossing.
“I have learned throughout the years that working as a team is much more beneficial for everyone,” says Joyce, and that includes not only the close bond she and Wayne share, but also the camaraderie between other local business owners.
“Wayne and I both grew up in Patrick County, Virginia, which borders Northern Stokes County, so we have always lived in the area,” tells Joyce. “We understand the importance of having small businesses in rural areas, not just for the locals, but to bring in customers from other locations.” These two know from experience that if someone visits their store, there’s a good chance they will frequent other local businesses as well.
The colorful retail floor – now occupying two stores’ worth of showroom space with a comfortable seating area for spouses or friends who’ve come along – now features 11 Made in the U.S.A.lines that are all about style and feel. Their loyal customer base appreciates the availability of local items, such as soaps from Long Family Farms in Stokes County and The Artist Jay Jewelry representing Greensboro. Dalton’s Crossing is now also featuring Brighton jewelry, watches, and handbags.
“I have always had an interest in fashion. When we opened we realized we should represent as many quality and unique styles as possible to help bring in foot traffic,” explains Joyce. “I envision my regular customer base when we’re on buying trips, and what their likes and dislikes are.”
But what keeps customers coming back – and bringing in new friends – is the hometown feel of Dalton’s Crossing’s down-to-earth style and their special brand of authentic customer service.
“We want everyone who walks through our doors to know how much we appreciate them,” says Joyce, emphasizing the store’s customer service. Beyond the obvious appeal of being loyal to the community, the convenience and hospitality are hard to beat.
“Isn’t it great when you remember a special event, and you need a gift quickly, and you have small businesses nearby where you can take care of it within a short amount of time?” says Joyce.
Make plans to visit Dalton’s Crossing to spice up your spring wardrobe! This shopping treasure is located at 102/104 East Dalton Road in King, NC (at the corner of Main Street and Dalton Road), 336-985-5464, open Monday – Friday 10 am – 6 pm and Saturday 10 am – 3 pm. Follow them on Facebook for news of sales and events, including their Fresh Produce Trunk Show, Saturday, May 5th, from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
