You may have heard about the new decor store off Main Street. We caught up with long-time RFV local, Kim Velasquez on her new business adventure.

Welcome Hazy Oak! Please tell us about the shop and the inspiration behind it.

Hazy Oak Interiors is located on the corner of Weant and Main in Carbondale, under the stairs next to the La Raza patio. We carry furniture, lighting, gifts, faux plants/flowers, cards, frames, gourmet popcorn, etc. We have a mix of unique, beautiful furniture ranging from one of a kind pieces to reclaimed, industrial and rustic items from all over the world.

I was a magazine publisher for 18 years. Owning a store that carries my favorite items has always been on my bucket list. Now seemed like the right time to give it a try. I have had friends and family tell me for years that I had missed my calling when it came to home decor and decorating. It is what I am truly passionate about. My husbandRob,who owns Pine Mountain Electric, is very supportive.

Do you have a background in interior design, or is this a passion of yours?

Since I was young I have had a passion for quality furniture that was unique and rare. I used to refinish furniture with my dad when I was growing up and it installed a love for turning a discarded piece into treasures.

It seems like there are ample opportunities to be creative in a space like this, what is your favorite thing about owning a store like this?

Besides getting to shop for all of the fun merchandise, I am enjoying meeting new people. Growing up in this valley, I used to know everyone in Carbondale. That's not the case any longer. Many people who visit the store used to live in the Aspen/Snowmass area, but now they have made their home in Carbondale. There are also many who are from different states.

How do you curate and source your products in a way that appeals to the local community?

My supplier suggested that I keep a mix of products and not just go with my taste. I am thankful for his knowledge since he has been extremely successful and have done what he suggested. The response has been great among the people who have visited the store. We have had many repeat customers.

With a tight-knit community like Carbondale, how do you envision building relationships and engaging local customers to foster loyalty and repeat business?

I follow the golden rule of treating others as you want them to treat you. I have been a business owner for many years in a different capacity. Most of my customers were like family to me. I hope that I can gain the same trust and respect as I have in the past. I am hoping customers will enjoy shopping in a fun, cozy atmosphere.

In the past, Carbondale was a town of ranchers, coal miners and hippies. Businesses came and went. With the new atmosphere and new population, I am hopeful that Carbondale will be a destination spot for small shops. I have met many great business owners and we are working together so that we can each thrive.

Find and follow Hazy Oak on social media

On Facebook: Hazy Oak Interiors
Instagram: @hazyoak