The Rusty Crickett
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If you are a Bradenton lifer, you may have visited The Rusty Crickett before. However, what you may not know, is that new owners Colleen and her husband Jim have re-imagined the design, location and product selection providing a new airy and welcoming atmosphere for shoppers.
Located in Downtown Bradenton directly off Manatee Ave East, The Rusty Crickett features the work and designs of small business creatives from the 941 and beyond. No matter what you’re looking for (or not looking for) you’ll find it here– like this super adorable reusable chips and guac set!
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A visit to The Rusty Crickett in Downtown Bradenton exceeded my expectations. The merchandise assortment is stocked with styles and price points to meet any shopper’s needs. It’s the perfect place to find a meaningful gift for your mother, grandmother, best pal (or yourself)! They offer gift cards and free gift wrapping services – making it easy to shop for even the pickiest people!
They have kept two important features of the original Bradenton shop – the letters behind the counter and boutique’s resident ‘shop cat,’ Rusty. With the new location came a new logo, featuring the famous Rusty.
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While perusing the shop, we had the opportunity to hear about Colleen and Jim’s vision for The Rusty Crickett. We wanted you to hear it from them as well!
Q: Introduce yourself! How long have you owned The Rusty Crickett?
“While attending college in DeKalb, IL I found a charming little shop downtown. I took all my friends and bought all my gifts there; it was our little escape from campus. It became a dream of mine to one day open my own little boutique full of unique wares.
The Rusty Crickett was much like my little shop in college; a long standing tradition in Bradenton. When the opportunity presented itself to purchase the business in August of 2018; we took the plunge. We hope the brands loyal customers will appreciate our new vision for the shop that blends key characteristics of the old Rusty Crickett with our personal style and personality.”
Q: What is the inspiration behind picking your merchandise mix?
“Our goal is to fill the shop with unique/interesting items from small makers located around the corner and around the globe. Many of our products have a story to tell. We believe that the story behind the gift is as important in choosing a meaningful and memorable gift for someone as the actual gift itself.”
Q: How did location play in to account as you decided to buy and then move The Rusty Crickett?
“The house that originally housed the shop was full of charm; but a bit off the beaten path. We weren’t looking to leave; but couldn’t pass up the chance to move into such an amazing new space. The new location is a perfect fit for our concept – we get to stay in a historic building without sacrificing accessibility.”
Q: What is your favorite item or brand you sell?
“There are too many to choose! Sand Straws, Wanderer Bracelets and JoJo Rings all have a great story and support noble causes. We love the quality of Beekman 1802 products, they leave your skin silky soft! And linen clothing is a weakness of mine, not to mention is ideal for the hot and humid climate of our area.”
Q: In your opinion, what makes The Rusty Crickett unique?
“What makes The Rusty Crickett unique is the shopping experience we offer our customers. Our shop is bright and airy with an ever-changing assortment of high quality, affordable products. Our commitment to personalized service makes us stand out from the crowd and is our way of providing added value for our customers – whether that be through our free gift-wrapping service or bringing in a specific product to meet a customer’s special request.”
Q: What is your favorite part of living in the 941?
“We love the 941! Our family has had roots in the Bradenton area since 1999. If we had to choose a favorite part, it would have to be the people. We love that our community is a diverse mix of local natives, transplants from different states and tourists. Also living a short drive to our beautiful gulf coast beaches doesn’t hurt either!”
Be sure to stop in this weekend, Saturday May 11th, for a pop-up collaborative with Tara at Sweet’s Bakehouse and Cheyanne from Shy Chic. It’s a great opportunity to find the perfect last-minute Mother’s Day gift you’ve been searching for!
