Weaving together unique gift baskets
Published 10:19 am Wednesday, May 20, 2015
Franklin Mayor Raystine Johnson-Ashburn prepares to cut the scissors with Portia Everett, in the white blouse. The recent ceremony was for the grand opening of Unique Unlimited Inc. at 600 South St. Everett’s business specializes in creative gift baskets as well as clothing and accessories for women, men and children. In front are Ellis Cofield; Mrs. Watson; Renae Lane; Shanquea Barrett; Michelle Artis; Councilwoman Mona Murphy; Everett; the mayor; Tameshia Grimes; City Manager Randy Martin; Councilwoman Mary Hilliard; and Sher-nae Earls. — Stephen H. Cowles | Tidewater News
FRANKLIN
Unique Unlimited Inc. is a business inspiration that’s been more than 30 years in the making.
“Faith just opened the doors,” said Portia Everett, who finally made that idea a reality starting in October. She remembered that an event at her former church required a gift, but there was really no money to lavish anything costly on the recipient.
“The Lord dropped on my spirit to make a basket,” Everett said. And so she did.
The same situation occurred at Easter, and a small rectangular basket included little simple items such as notebooks. This and later creations began to impress recipients and admirers alike as Everett expressed her creativity. She would sometimes get as many as 50 orders for Mother’s Day in years past.
A survey Everett once participated indicated to her that she would never be able go to college or even own a business. But Everett did want to do more with her life and expand her opportunities, especially when it came to providing for her own three daughters. So she went on to earn her bachelor’s degree in business from Strayer University.
Portia Everett of Unique Unlimited holds up a gift basket that she prepared. Her business on 600 South St., in Franklin specializes in such handmade creations. — Stephen H. Cowles | Tidewater News
“We should not let our situation dictate our future,” said Everett, who’s worked as a team leader in the shipping department for many years at Planters Peanuts in Suffolk. This August will mark her 31st anniversary.
“I work for good people, “Everett added.
Her trust in God is the source for personal successes as well as endurance during difficult times.
“As long as I have my faith, I can do anything,” said Everett, who wants to open another business in five years.
Of course her shop features ready-made baskets, complete with shrink-wrap, as well as items that can be hand-selected. There are also clothes and accessories for women, men and children.
The arrangement is part of her goal for customers to feel free to browse and shop.
“My prayer is that my customers feel a peaceful atmosphere,” Everett said. “People know me, and I want them to be lifted up.”
Working with her to do just that is Sher-nae Earls of Courtland. The two met when Earls was working as a cashier at Sears in Chespeake Learning that the store was closing, Everett offered her a job.
To arrange for Everett to create a unique gift basket for you, call 562-3014, or stop by the store at 600 South St. The shop is open Tuesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., but closed Sunday and Monday.
