Clinton furniture business opens at main four corners

Nanette Holt started painting furniture years ago when her children were small as a way to save money and add a creative touch to her home. What started as a money-saving hobby has now turned into a new career for Holt, who has her romantic country cottage furniture for sale at Floral Fantasy in the heart of Clinton.“I’ve been doing this for years for me,” said Holt. She decided to sell her work after retiring from Allegiance Hospital in Jackson just a few months ago. Making her hobby into a career allowed Holt the ability to spend more time with her husband, Richard.“I needed something to keep me busy,” she said.Her decision to explore her creative side as a new career was encouraged by her husband as well as her friend, Lori, the owner of Faded Rose in Clinton. When the opportunity came to have floor space at Floral Fantasy, Holt was concerned she would be cutting in on business at Faded Rose, but Lori was thrilled to have another place in Clinton for unique furniture.“She’s very supportive,” Holt said. “I liked Clinton. I wanted to be in Clinton.”Both women hope the center of Clinton fills up with antique stores as well as shops specializing in different crafts, making it a destination for people drawn to creativity. “That would be wonderful,” said Holt.Finding furniture pieces to refinish is fun for Holt. She said, “I go everywhere, but especially auctions and estate sales.”Auctions are a new venture for Holt. Shopping these venues became necessary, as she needed to increase her inventory for the shop, and Holt has been enjoying the new experience.Most, although not all, of Holt’s furniture pieces are refinished using paint. She is self-taught with her technique.“I just figured out how to do it,” said Holt. She then experimented with other refinishing techniques. “I realized not everybody likes painted furniture,” she added.Now that she’s investing her time and talent into a business, Holt plans to take painting technique classes in Midland. “You can’t do the same thing all the time,” Holt said. “I’m learning every day and having fun doing it.”Eventually, Holt hopes to have her own shop in Clinton. Although she enjoys her work, she wants a connection with people. “I would like to be in the shop more.” Holt said. “I’m a people person.”Her pieces tend to attract people who like furniture that is quirky and different. After she perfects her painting technique, Holt expects she will feel comfortable to painting furniture on demand for clients.Until then, aficionados can find a variety of furniture ready for purchase at Floral Fantasy, Monday through Friday from 10:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. and 10:30 to 3 on Saturday. An open house is planned for March 15 and 16. It includes Holt’s work, Faded Rose and Floyd Rhadigan’s antique store.