Stoddard County: A great place to shop small

In 2002, Kim Williams says she and her husband, Gary, met a turning point in their lives and decided to open their own small business, The Corner Cottage, in their hometown of Dexter, Missouri.

After selling their items at craft shows and antique stores, Gary and Kim opened their own space to share their creations and the products they love with the community. Gary has been making furniture for more than 20 years, and is his own "one-man operation," Kim says.

The Corner Cottage in Dexter, Missouri, Friday, Feb. 26, 2016.Glenn Landberg

"We cherish the friendships we have made through our business and love interacting with the customers," she adds. "Outreach is very dear to me, and whenever possible, we host charitable fundraisers at the shop involving our customers for local organizations in our community."

To keep things interesting, Kim says she creates new and unique displays to coordinate with the seasons, a task she says challenges her creativity but is the most rewarding job in the store.

The Corner Cottage in Dexter, Missouri Friday, Feb. 26, 2016.Glenn Landberg

Kim and Gary enjoy patronizing other small businesses in the area and supporting locally-owned restaurants.

"Dexter and Stoddard County are blessed to have many locally-owned small businesses and restaurants that provide a wonderful shopping experience for not only our residents, but visitors from surrounding communities," Kim says.

The Corner Cottage in Dexter, Missouri Friday, Feb. 26, 2016.Glenn Landberg

Dexter has always been home to the Williamses, and Kim says she doesn't see that changing any time soon.

"I have lived in Dexter my entire life and have watched many changes as it has grown over the years," she says. "However, for me it will always be 'home,' and I love living in a small and caring community."