By Laura Huffman
Seda’s Gift Shoppe, an unique emporium offering fun and useful gifts for all occasions, is located on the historic and charming Square in downtown Waynesville, Missouri. The current location is housed in what was formerly the Rexall Drug Store. Pam Seda, owner of the gift shop, fondly recalls walking to the drug store after school to get a vanilla Coke and a grilled cheese sandwich. Little did she know back then that she would be the proud owner of the building that today houses her successful shop.
Seda’s Gift Shoppe in Waynesville, Missouri. Photo courtesy of Pulaski County Tourism Bureau.
The premise of Seda’s gift shop was formed over fifteen years ago. While working retail and at the local cable company she pondered the idea of owning a business. Perhaps inspired by her grandfather, Pam and her husband Steve, decided to re-open his former business, Hill’s Antiques and Swap Shop. The determined coupled rolled up their sleeves and set about bringing the dormant store back to life. After a thorough cleaning and re-roofing the building, they realized that the location wasn’t ideal. The Seda’s decided to wait.
Seda’s Gift Shoppe in Waynesville, Missouri. Photo by Laura Huffman for Pulaski County Tourism Bureau.
In September, 2002 the couple signed a lease on the building that had been the home of local landmark Parrish Floral for many years. This building was snuggled up to Route 66‘s curb and was just across the street from another local icon, Victory Pub. The Seda’s purchased $300 of inventory to sell at their new enterprise.
Eighteen months after opening their doors the Rexall Building (built in 1941 for Dr. C.A. Talbot) around the corner became available. Seda did not hesitate and purchased the building. The gift shop moved into the lower level and Seda’s Gift Shoppe has been a hit with browsers, shoppers, locals, and tourists ever since.
Seda’s Gift Shoppe in Waynesville, Missouri. Photo courtesy of Pulaski County Tourism Bureau.
Seda’s strong roots to Pulaski County, five generations on both sides, makes community pride the cornerstone of her business. She also enthusiastically shares her love of Waynesville with Route 66 travelers from around the globe who stop in to find the perfect souvenir. Seda’s Gift Shoppe is just two doors north of the classic highway, directly next to Nona’s Kitchen in the famed Rigsby House.
Seda’s Gift Shoppe in Waynesville, Missouri. Photo courtesy of Pulaski County Tourism Bureau.
To learn more about Seda’s Gift Shoppe at 107 North Benton in Waynesville follow their Facebook page at: www.facebook.com/Sedas-Gift-Shoppe-137481656267844
Download a free Waynesville Walking Tour brochure here.
To learn more about things to see and do in Pulaski County, Missouri visit www.PulaskiCountyUSA.com!
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