Ugh, I really hate to see small businesses closing down. Earlier this year, I shared the news that Panda's Place, one of my favorite consignment stores in Newburgh, was shutting its doors, but thankfully they recently announced a new location. However, the closure I saw earlier this week hits even harder because it was such a cute store and it doesn't sound like it will be reopening anytime soon.

Natalie Wells, a thrifter with a knack for refinishing furniture, opened The Chalky Chic back in September 2020. Even during the height of the pandemic, she pursued her dream and transformed old, unwanted pieces into absolute treasures.

I always loved browsing through her store. I did not need furniture because my house is stuffed to the brim, but I enjoyed checking out all her beautiful decorations—it always felt like #decorationgoals! And I couldn't leave without a few pieces in tow.

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In a Facebook post, she stated that foot traffic has slowed in recent months and it didn't make sense to have a store when most of her sales come from social media.

The Chalky Chic Facebook
The Chalky Chic Facebook
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As they say dreams really do come true to those who wait, but eventually dreams do come to an end and sadly that’s where we are today! I was brave enough to go for my dream and wise enough to know when it’s time to walk away.. Unfortunately the economy and this crazy messed up world we’re all living in right now has taken its toll. Sadly another small business is having to close its doors, only this time it has to be mine. This year has been tough, full of frustrations, trying times and all the things..It’s been hard to keep up with a smile on my face.
Crazy to think 4 years ago I took the leap by opening a store front location in the middle of a pandemic none the less. I was scared taking the plunge and not knowing how it would go. I was shocked and surprised being the busiest I could imagine in such a trying time in this world.

I watched a local news segment a few wks ago regarding Small Businesses and how are they surviving and that’s when reality really set in for me. They stated “a typical life span for a small business is 3 years” “and how over the next few years small businesses will be non existent.”
This is very sad and disappointing to me and all the other small businesses who have worked so hard to get theirs up and going.

I opened a shop so that people would get out and enjoy downtown Newburgh and see what all our small town offers. Foot traffic has declined and unfortunately I did not open a store front to work off social media and selling online.

Don’t be sad as I am thrilled I went for my dream and gave my very best 4 years with over 5,000 FB followers and have no regrets!! I did it!! I have met some of the sweetest people while being here that I consider lifelong friends now and for that I am blessed! Tammy Koelker with the former Honeysuckle Finds THANK YOU for this opportunity you gave me. I have had so much fun!

I’ll post more over the next few wks but hoping to wrap up by the end of the month. As Dr. Seuss and his famous quote goes….. “Don’t cry because it’s over, Smile because it happened.”

Love you guys,
Natalie
The Chalky Chic LLC

Natalie told me that she will continue to make custom pieces and do local shows around town. Follow her on Facebook for sales and to see where she'll be popping up around town.

Southern Indiana Meets Hollywood in Newburgh Home

Take a look at this brand-new home located in the Pebble Creek Subdivision.

Gallery Credit: Liberty