Visitors say there has always been something enchanting about Blackshear and the Crytsal Cottage’s new home on SW Central Avenue in the historic downtown area puts that magic front and center.
Owner Amy Chasez joins a growing group of women entrepreneurs forming the backbone of Blackshear’s vibrant local business community. Chasez’s Crystal Cottage is an upscale crystal boutique with plenty of the “points” or “mini-towers” most people envision when they hear the word crystals, but she also specializes in geodes, specimen quality raw crystals, polished and tumbled stones, palm stones and larger decorative pieces.
Chasez says a variety of factors prompted the move from downtown Waycross to Blackshear.
“I loved downtown Waycross and was very passionate about it, but personal stuff led me here,” she said.
Citing positive word of mouth she had heard about Blackshear’s support of small businesses, including increased foot traffic in a prospering downtown area, Chasez says she began a search for the Crystal Cottage’s new home.
“I found this place and I asked the universe for a sign. A few hours later this space came available.”
Chasez especially loved the sense of history that came with her new spot.
“It has old bones and a lot of character.” In addition to all the colorful stones, The Crystal Cottage also carries jewelry, paintings and other work by local artists as well as a selection of incense and candles.
As she settles into the space and learns what her customers are searching for, Chasez says there will eventually be other offerings available, including a curated selection of oddities, curios, conversation pieces, vintage items and clothing.
Located at 122 NW Central Avenue between The Trackside Emporium and the barber/tattoo shop, The Crystal Cottage is open Tuesday - Saturday, 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. They can be reached at 912-722-8096. Follow The Crystal Cottage page on Facebook and @thecrystalcottage_ seg on Instagram.
