Downtown Sanford Businesses Celebrate Major Milestones

BY DANIELLA HUME

Downtown Sanford is growing in popularity for its charming smalltown vibes. New businesses are popping up all over town, attracting more visitors and entrepreneurs. There are only a handful of companies that have been in Sanford for at least a decade.

Michelle Simoneaux is one of the few folks in town who own more than one business. She said, "It has been quite the roller-coaster ride since day one. Moving to our new location eight years ago has made a world of difference. We are celebrating our 10-year ownership anniversary, and we are continuing to flourish, thanks to the hard work of my daughter Emeli who is the manager. But I wouldn't be where I am today if it were not for the tremendous support from our community."

The Colonial Room was recently awarded "Best Family Restaurant" in the 2022 Best of Sanford Readers' Choice Awards. They were also nominated in four other categories. However, there is much more to the restaurant than delicious food. Michelle also loves to give back to those in need. In fact, over the last ten years, Michelle said her favorite time at her business was during the 2020 pandemic.

"We teamed up with two other local restaurants to help serve first responders, hospital staff, and teachers. It was a great feeling," she told us. "Together, we served over one-thousand meals. Even during difficult times, we came together to create a better tomorrow."

The Colonial Room has partnered with Pray for Sanford, an organization within Restoration Church of Sanford to help in feeding the homeless. For the last three years, Michelle has opened her restaurant every Thursday night to serve those in need. If they can't make it downtown, the group will send a team with food to the different homeless camps. Overall, they end up feeding about 50 people per week. "I truly love what I do. It's not about the money; it's about being part of this amazing community," said Michelle.

The other business Michelle owns is already making waves after being open just one year. The Colonial Room Country Store was nominated for the 2022 Best Small Retail Business in Sanford. They sell everything from candy and sweet treats to novelty and handcrafted items. Michelle told us that they strive to support local entrepreneurs and businesses. "Since opening, we have doubled our vendors and inventory. Now you can find items in our store from over 50 artisans," she said. "October

Estela Testa Michelle Simoneaux Michelle Simoneaux with daughters Noel and Emeli at The Colonial Room Country Store

has been our busiest month to date, and we couldn't be happier with our direction."

The Colonial Room Country Store is also a family-run business. Michelle's two daughters, Noel and Emeli, contribute to the shop. Emeli manages the restaurant and Noel manages the shop's day-to-day operations. "From layout to vendor interviews, everything about the store is her," said Michelle. "She really is doing a wonderful job."

Michelle has scheduled their 1-year anniversary at The Colonial Room Country Store, which was held on December 10.

Michelle said that they are always looking for new vendors and items to add to the store. Again, it's not only about the money but also helping local artists and supporting a community that has given her so much over the years.

"It's incredible to be blessed enough to celebrate two business anniversaries this year," Michelle said. "It takes my breath away to think about it, but I genuinely feel that the customers are more like family to me, and I wouldn't be where I am today without them." n