Business Profile w/ The Posh Pineapple

By Tiffany Yancey // Photos by Kelsey Walters

Q: Where are you originally from and what brought you to New Smyrna Beach?

A: I was born in Sanford, FL and I am a fifth generation Floridian! My family has lived in NSB for decades, going back to my great grandparents. We had a second home here for 15 years. Then six years ago, pineapples started bouncing around in my head! The Posh Pineapple was born and my husband and I moved here full-time.

Q: Your shop is well known among the locals for being the go-to place to find unique gifts for any occasion. When did you first open your doors?

A: I love that The Posh is the go-to place for gifts! Since opening in October 2013, it has been my goal to have a beautiful store with fun, unique inventory! I love buying for the store, I never know what I’m going to find!

Q: You’re not just renting this space, you actually own the building. How does it feel to own a piece of New Smyrna history and do you know what it was originally built for?

A: I had my eye on our building for years. When it became available for sale, I knew it would be a great location for The Posh Pineapple! I love being in the historic downtown, it has such a great feel. Most recently, the building was the home of Total Vision and I heard it was a card shop at one time.

Q: How did you come up with the name? Does it have a special meaning?

A: The name came from my love of pineapples and all they symbolize: warmth, love, friendship and hospitality. I knew the store name had to have the word “pineapple” in it. I loved “The Posh Pineapple” the minute it entered my mind. And lucky for us, pineapples became very popular about a year after I opened!

Q: What sets your shop apart from other gift boutiques in our area?

A: We have some wonderful boutiques and galleries in the historic district on Canal Street. It’s such an eclectic blend and I think we all complement each other. I strive to keep our inventory fresh and unique and great customer service is must!

Q: Do you showcase any local artists in your shop?

A: Yes! We absolutely love the art culture in NSB! Customers swoon over the NSB watercolor prints by Jelly Press. We also have hand-painted sea life on recycled wood by Under the Sea, wooden handmade sea life by Carol O, unique wooden shell boxes and crosses by Patina and watercolor prints and note cards by Kara McKean. We adore them all!

Q: You recently announced on social media that you are expanding the shop. Give us all the juicy details!

A: I am so excited about our expansion! I have wanted to carry apparel since I opened. The building next door became available, and I thought it would be perfect! I am going to do some renovations and hope to open in the spring. The Poshettes and I are very excited for this new addition!

Q: What is your favorite part about owning a shop along historic Canal Street?

A: I love what I do! I love the locals, the travelers and my staff. I used to come to Canal Street with my grandmother, so it brings back very fond memories for me. It is a beautiful street lined with trees, eateries and shops. I am blessed to work each day in such a wonderful community full of such nice people.

Q: If you could give one piece of advice to an aspiring small business owner, what would that be?

A: I’ve talked to many women in the last five years who walked into my store and asked me that very same question. I told each of them, “Find a niche, do your research and follow your heart!”