The Carousel takes a new turn
By Jennifer Archibald Staff writer

More than a flower shop Casie Trent, new owner of The Carousel, is offering antiques, handbags, and a variety of gift items, as well as flowers and balloons, in her newly-decorated shop. Comet photo by Jennifer Archibald

The Carousel in Burlington is under new ownership, but still in the family.

"My husband's aunt, Pat Hufford, started the shop 14 years ago," said new owner Casie Trent of Bringhurst.

Trent said she has two family members working with her - her mother, Karen Francis, and mother-in-law, Shirley Trent.

"The shop has changed, and the look has changed," she said.

She did some remodeling and painting to give the shop a new look.

Trent also explained that The Carousel will continue to sell fresh and silk flowers, gifts, balloons, and cards, but will also have more and varied items.

" W e ' r e adding antiques, handbags, and maybe jewelry," she said.

The antiques will inc lude furniture, dishes, etc.

Trent is planning to add a variety of gifts so that local residents will stop at her shop first, instead of running to Kokomo or Lafayette.

She said shopping locally should be appealing, with the price of gas.

Trent added that she plans to have monthly themes, so the displays and featured items will change.

"We'll also have things for the younger girls," she said.

Trent plans to attract customers with specials, newspaper coupons, and promotions.

For those last minute shoppers, she said there will always be some flower bouquets already made up for fast service.

"We'll deliver within a 30- mile radius," she added.

The shop is ready for business. It opened Monday. Summer hours are Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Wednesday and Saturday, 9 a.m. to noon.

Trent and her husband, Troy, have one son, Cole, age two.