Earlier this month a new business opened in Poplarville with the aim of helping residents find unique gifts for all occasions.
Ladonna Dedeaux is the owner and operator of Nana’s Nest, located in downtown Poplarville.
Dedeaux officially opened the shop June 1, but it took two months of preparation, with help from her husband, to get the store ready for its first customer.
Once her son reached his current age of 7, she felt it was time to open her own business. She said she’s always wanted her own business, but was apprehensive. It was her family and her faith in God that spurred her to open Nana’s Nest. The store’s name came from the nickname the family’s grandchildren gave to Dedeaux’s mother. When she finally decided to open the business, her mother was a crucial support system, helping purchase display cases and some of the initial stock, all while undergoing cancer treatment, Dedeaux said.
“I call my mom my drill sergeant,” Dedeaux said.
Prior to opening the business, she was a stay-at-home mom. Before that, she worked at the Pearl River County Hospital and Nursing Home in accounts payable for 18 years. While working at the local hospital, she made silk floral creations and decorations under contract. She now makes those floral arrangements for the various gift baskets she offers in store. Customers can order a custom-made gift basket for any occasion, or choose one of many already on display. She said the baskets are great last minute gift ideas. She also sells homemade bird feeders, hot sauce and a sauce she described as being sweet with a little kick.
Nana’s Nest also offers jewelry, and in the near future she plans to sell drinks and snacks.
By summer’s end, she plans to host parties for any occasion at the Main Street location. She and her husband are in the process of preparing a large room in the rear of the store to cater to that need; and outside is a concrete pavilion where outdoor activities can be held.
Nana’s Nest is located at 418 S. Main Street, Poplarville and can be reached by calling 601-795-0524. Summer hours are Wednesday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. to noon.
Dedeaux said when school starts in the fall, she will add Tuesday from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. to the available hours.