INFOCUS
THE OLD MANGO
HOME DÉCOR & MORE IN DOWNTOWN OP WRITTEN BY BETHANEY PHILLIPS / PHOTOS BY JAMI BOWMAN
F
or 20 years, owner Courtney Caldwell had the idea for The Old Mango, a boutique home décor and interior design location. She even had the business name picked out, named after an old country song. But the entire time she thought it was just that—an idea, a dream that would never come true. She had a steady career that she loved and a growing family at home. Working as a nurse for 24 years, she thought she would retire as a nurse and was always fearful to take the leap into small business ownership. But one day she gained the courage to follow through on her dream.
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SIMPLYkc MAGAZINE
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AUGUST 2022
With the stress and changes brought on by the pandemic, she had to reevaluate and refocus on what was most important for her family. She ultimately decided she would leave health care and take a leap of faith. Caldwell was quick to mention the support of her husband and children, who regularly help with the store. “This is our family’s store, and no one has worked harder to make it possible than my husband, Trevor. We are a large blended family, and my kids have been my best supporters.” Caldwell mentioned that it was scary. “It was risky, and I’m a very calculated person. I don’t like to take risks,” she explains. With COVID, however, she
saw peoples’ homes become their sanctuary and security. She wanted to help others make a beloved space of their own. “I did a lot of self-reflection and tried to align my priorities. And I said to myself, You know what? I’m just going to go for it!” Six months later she was up and running, even partnering with other stores and community events. Located in downtown Overland Park (one of Caldwell’s favorite locations), she sells home and garden décor and items from local vendors and artisans, including fair trade, ethical, and sustainable pieces whenever possible. She feels there is a deep importance to be as sustainable as possi-
