This past spring, two new businesses opened in downtown Parkersburg, just a couple doors apart on the 700 block of Market Street. The businesses have many things in common; locations, the time period they opened, co-owner and an excitement to bring something unique to the area. Both are great additions, and we are thrilled to have them in downtown. Read more to learn about each.

WINE DOWN ON MARKET

If you’re a food and wine lover, you’ll want to read this! This spring, Wine Down on Market (WDOM), a unique wine bistro, opened its doors, bringing a wide array of wine selections, delicious small plates and friendly atmosphere.

Pam Creel and Kate Swisher, co-owners, began discussing their love and vision for downtown Parkersburg many years ago. That vision included a wine bar – simple and inviting, with great food and wine, and an atmosphere that begs people to come and enjoy. Fast forward to 2021. Space became available in a prime location on Market Street, and the dream began to take life. Enter Tim Smalley — a young, talented, energetic chef from Louisville, Kentucky. His creative (and delicious) ideas aligned with theirs, and yet another piece fell into place.

In addition to Chef Tim’s seasonal menu options and nightly specials, WDOM offers nearly 150 wines, hand-crafted cocktails, and draft and bottled beer. Renovations are underway on the lower level that will be available for special events.

Wine Down on Market is open Tuesday through Thursday, 4-9 p.m. and Friday and Saturday 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. On occasion, brunch is served, and will be announced in advance. Seating is available indoors or on the porch.

Enjoy a night out at WDOM, and taste what downtown Parkersburg has to offer. Cheers!

APRICOT LANE BOUTIQUE

Apricot Lane Boutique is the fastest-growing women’s clothing franchise in the United States, with over 100 locations nationally. All locations are independently owned and operated, and the Parkersburg location is the first in the state of West Virginia. Pamela Creel, local owner, has been working toward opening the store for several months.

“Although we’re part of the national franchise, I personally traveled to the Dallas Market to find and purchase great styles for women who live and work in the Mid-Ohio Valley.”

The store features pieces from a variety of designers, from small companies to larger brands such as Diff Eyewear and Judy Blue denim. In-store stylists assist shoppers with creating looks for specific events, such as dinner on a cruise, or a family gathering.

“Our stylists are also able to help customers find pieces to coordinate with items they already have in their closets, or to dress-up or accessorize an outfit.” Other offerings from the boutique include personal shopper services and private shopping events for small groups.

New styles arrive almost daily and are featured on the shop’s Facebook and Instagram pages.

Apricot Lane Boutique Parkersburg is open Sunday and Monday noon to 5 p.m., and Tuesday through Saturday 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. If you have not visited both businesses, we hope you will soon.

If you have, make sure you stop by again. There’s always something new and exciting happening. Wine Down on Market is located at 701 Market St., and on Facebook at @winedownonmarket. You’ll find Apricot Lane Boutique at 705 Market St. and on Facebook at @apricotlaneparkersburg.