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01/09/2020 11:00 PMDeanna Blake equates owning her small business, Domestic Possessions, to having a colicky baby.
"You love this baby. You can't imagine life without the joys of this baby. But the truth lies in knowing this baby does not sleep and requires your constant attention, no matter what might be going on in your life. The reward comes from making people happy, making them laugh when they have had a rough day, or finding the perfect something they have been looking for," says Blake.
As a mother of four, Blake understands all about labors of love.
Domestic Possessions has evolved into something new and innovative since the store's inception. Today, the store serves as a full-service lifestyle boutique featuring furniture, home décor, home design services, and gifts. Blake feels she owes her business initiative to the previous owner, Dana Mantilia.
"She saw gifts in me that I did not know I possessed," says Blake. "She gave me a job and a chance and I ran with it. I am forever grateful."
Also grateful to her family and patrons, Blake says without them, she would not be able to do what she does. Her family has literally rolled up their sleeves and helped anytime the need arose and has understood when she has had to miss events to meet work goals. Her patrons give her a reason to work hard everyday. She loves getting to know them, work with them, and help them create happy and warm spaces in their homes.
"Success comes from the desire to do better each day. It comes from sacrifice, discipline, and always knowing that the world doesn't owe you anything," she says.
Because of this, the store does things a little differently. Domestic Possessions does not compete with any other small business. The store challenges itself to be innovative and fresh, and to give its customers more of what they want or need. The shop has real people answering the phone and your online questions.
"We like the personal interaction, we like knowing your name and your story," says Blake. "We like simplicity and being able to relate."
Domestic Possessions strives to provide affordable luxury for your home through their design services, and the store itself offers an escape from the day to day things that may bog us down. Blake says one of her favorite things about her job is when she hears a customer walk in the store and say, "Ahhh. My happy place."
This story was provided by Domestic Possessions located at 11 Garnet Park Road in Madison. Hours are Tuesday through Saturday, 10am-5pm, Sunday 10am-2pm, closed Mondays. For more information, please call 203-350-0558 or visit dphomestore.com.