Why I Started My Business in Western South Carolina, and You Should, Too
A local entrepreneur shares the benefits of launching a business in Western South Carolina.
There are a lot of perks to living in Western South Carolina – gorgeous scenery, delicious food, friendly residents. It’s no wonder so many people choose to call it home. While it’s a great place to live, it’s also a prime spot to start a business.
Just ask Brooke Thomas, owner of Ginger Bee Boutique, a trendy clothing store. Thomas launched her business in Aiken in 2020 after graduating from the University of South Carolina Aiken, and since then, she hasn’t looked back.
What local resources did you utilize when starting your business?
At the beginning of starting Ginger Bee, I utilized our local downtown development association. Aiken Downtown Development Association (ADDA) is an organization that focuses on promotion, design and economic vitality within the downtown while also growing strong business and community partnerships. I went and spoke with the director and stated that I was interested in opening a business in the downtown area. They assisted me in looking for buildings that were available and guided me through the steps that I needed to take to be a part of the downtown community.
Why did you think Western South Carolina was a great place to start your business?
Growing up in the western part of South Carolina, Aiken was always home. Our downtown is so vibrant, and I knew there was nowhere else that I would rather be. Graduating from high school and college here, I had made a lot of connections that I knew would be beneficial to me opening a store here, and I wanted to stay local.
Why would you recommend other entrepreneurs consider Western South Carolina?
I would recommend anyone open a business in Western South Carolina. You can’t beat the beauty and people that live here in South Carolina. There are plenty of local organizations and statewide assistance programs that can help you succeed in opening a business, such as South Carolina Business One Stop, SCORE, ADDA and local chambers.
How would you describe Western South Carolina’s entrepreneurial environment?
The western sphere of South Carolina is very populated with small-business owners. The majority of people in South Carolina either own or work for a small business, which is great because small businesses really help drive the American economy.
What advice would you give to other small-business owners looking to open a business in this area?
My advice would be to utilize local and state assistance and find a mentor in your particular field that you are wanting to open a business in. Finding a mentor that can help guide you in the right direction and open your eyes to all the aspects of that particular business was one of the best decisions that I made. It truly helped pave the way of successfully opening and operating a small business today.
Get to Know Western South Carolina
Want to learn more about living and working in Western South Carolina? Check out the latest edition of Livability Western South Carolina.