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| Contributed Photo/ Erica Quin-Easter Town Manager Sheri Stone visits Kristi Peterson, owner of Jemtland Gypsy, for a haircut at Stockholm’s newest business located in the old town office building in the heart of the community. |
STOCKHOLM — When the town of Stockholm relocated its town office, leaving a small building vacant in the center of town, Kristi and Glen Peterson of New Sweden saw an opportunity to create a new business.
The result is Jemtland Gypsy, a year-round hair salon serving women, men and children in central and northern Aroostook and showcasing Kristi’s handcrafted, custom-made bags, clothing, costumes and other creations.
The Petersons brought their idea to fruition with the help of Stockholm Town Manager Sheri Stone, who had attended a networking event with Women, Work and Community back in 2009. When Kristi approached Stone in the summer of 2012 with her ideas for the vacant building, the town manager recommended Kristi start putting together a sound business plan.
The Petersons then met with Women, Work and Community Microenterprise Coordinator Erica Quin-Easter to put their ideas on paper and talk about financing options.
Armed with facts and figures, the Petersons approached their bank and secured a loan. They then set to work painting and refurbishing the town office into a bright, cheerful salon.
Jemtland Gypsy is located at 63 School St., across from the town community center and down the street from Eureka Hall restaurant. The salon offers a variety of services, including haircuts, perms, colors, highlights and up-dos.
In addition, Kristi creates a variety of handcrafted and custom-made boutique clothing and accessories, including colonial and heritage wear, costumes and seasonal wear, skirts and dresses, and custom-made handbags and tote bags using recycled jeans and fabrics. Her costumes can be seen around Stockholm each year at the Midsommar Festival, Halloween parties and other events.
Salon hours are Tuesday-Wednesday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., with later hours available by appointment, and Friday-Saturday 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Scheduling is by appointment and walk-ins are welcome.
