When one door closes, another opens. That is what owner of Squirky’s Eatery & Market said when she described her new business. Michelle Johnson and husband Brent have been working hard for a couple of months getting the new market ready for opening day.
“I knew when Brooke (owner of the former business in the building, The Rabbit Hole) closed that I wanted to continue what she started,†said Johnson. “She created a place where so many of us met and became friends. It was an all-inclusive safe zone where people of all walks of life could gather and enjoy each other’s company. I love the sense of community here in Red Boiling Springs. It has truly become home for Brent and me.â€
When asked about the market’s unique name, Johnson smiled and explained, “My mom always called me Squirky. That’s where the name comes from. It is just one way of having her here with me. When I was young, I was only Michelle if I was in trouble. All other times, I was Squirky. It became my name.â€
Johnson has more plans for the market.
“We plan on having a stage where people can come sing/play music, or even read a book or poetry out loud,†said Johnson. “I believe food and music are two ingredients that bring people together. They just go perfectly with one another. I also want to do a podcast here. There are several vendors that have come along that have a unique story on what brought them here. I think it will be fun to share that with people through a podcast. Sharing struggles and triumphs is an amazing thing. I think in sharing those stories, it could help others maybe find their way in life.â€
Johnson explains that the market will be a kid friendly place as well.
“We also have a kid’s corner for reading, drawing, painting, and crafts,†said Johnson. “The kids can create things and then sell them right here in the market. I believe in encouraging young people to follow their dreams, and I want to do whatever I can to help local kids find something they enjoy, and to follow it.â€
The décor at Squirky’s Eatery & market is somewhat eclectic.
“I have had some of these furniture pieces since I was 18,†said Johnson. “I re-finished them. It’s nice to have pieces of my mom all around me. It feels nice to have her here with me.â€
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