[TrudyM]

I know it must be here somewhere but is there a list of current retail stores and businesses in the villages.
I am thinking that when my husband retires (24 months) if we move to the villages I might want to open a business. I have worked 50-60 hour weeks all my life and being out of work this last year (part of the massive downsizing of Macys corporate buying structure, all regional offices closed.) has made me realize I may need the mental excercise and exterior validation.

Any store etc that everyone thinks is needed.

[Bogie Shooter]

Here is a start.http://www.nxtbook.com/nxtbooks/thevillages/0509/#/58

[SteveZ]

My spouse and I thought the same thing. We each planned our own businesses based on past careers, as we knew how to make them work.

Then, we both took a complete month off. What we found is that our collective stress levels dipped dramatically. We got involved in a couple of activities, signed up for some stuff at the Lifelong Learning College, got to go exploring the area again together....and flat ran out of time to run or participate in any business. I've been so busy I now need a planner/scheduler just to keep up with the retiree stuff I'm doing.

This place can be rather surprising.......

[TrudyM]

Well I was in the planning dept. HA HA

[LELANDJANE]

I am also moving to the villages in August. I don't plan to work as a "newlywed" but I'm already wondering if I can do that. I've been a church organist for 45 years and I love it. So we'll see.

I think the villages could really use some variety as far as women's shops. I know that when I've been in Belk's there, it is always busy but with your background with macy's (which I love) I definitely think you would have a lot to offer.

I'm an avid shopper so I look forward to seeing you there if you open up and I hope you do.

[SteveZ]

On a serious note - the businesses that succeed here are those which realize this is a seasonal market. When the snowbirds have arrived for their winter stay, TV is an active market for almost everything. When the snowbirds leave, those businesses that haven't planned their cash flow and expenses for the snowbird exodus, and the accompanying 4-6 months of reduced customer base, go belly-up. The restaurant and specialty shop turnover is very prevalent come mid-summer.

[TrudyM]

I should have been more specific.
I of course have the list that is on the villages lifestyles web site page (You click on the map and it brings up a merchant list for the center).
I was just wondering if it is up to date, and if there are significant number of retail just outside the bubble.
And how far do you have to go to get out from under the villages developments thumb.
I realize that 90% of the year would have to be made Nov through March.

I was thinking an intimates shop, high end lingerie and sleepwear.
Or perhaps a craft and art supply.

[graciegirl]

Trudy.
In this economy, it is an extremely difficult feat to make a go of a new business anywhere. I speak to you as a retired apparel representative. As for an art supply and crafts store, we have Joannes and I expect there will be a Michaels soon. There is a "serious" art supply store in nearby Leesburg. I can't say about a high end Intimate Apparel shop but.......people here are on a fixed income and most wear very casual and not very expensive clothing. Much different than the clothing I see worn by seniors here in Cincinnati. Beals is VERY successful because of their low prices. The price of renting store space from the developers must be high and maybe the cause of the prices in most of those stores being high too. It is a valid point that the months other than January, February and March are much slower for retail establishments.

I also agree that you will be astonished at how fast the days go by. Either my husband or I will say most days.....Do you know it is four O' clock already??? I sometimes just take the day off and stay home to catch up on my reading. It is wonderful to find so many absorbing activities.

Good luck in whatever you end up doing.

And kindest wishes,

Grace

[sschuler1]

Leland jane - there are two different churches listed in the help wanted section that are looking for church organists. And, are you really from Leland? Leland, MI?

Trudy - what about a service business? Maid service, errand service, personal shopper, delivery service, etc.... I would think with an elderly population that services are probably more in demand. I've seen peeps on this forum looking for tailoring services, ironing services, decorating services, lawn care, etc...

[LELANDJANE]

Hi schuler,

No, I'm not from Leland, that's my last name for about two more months. I'm getting married August 1-and movin' to the Villages!

How do you get to the help wanted section?

[chuckinca]

Maybe the Daily Sun:

http://www.thevillagesdailysun.com/service_directory/


.

[sschuler1]

Leland jane - here is the link: http://www.thevillagesdailysun.com/c...ds/employment/

Good luck with your wedding and your move!