Person featured: Cory Thompson
Business:Thompson Garden Gallery & Outdoor Living

Phone number: 828-859-3185
Address: 83 Palmer Street, Tryon
Email: thompsonlandscape@windstream.net
Operating hours: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Monday – Saturday
Nature of business: The gallery is a place for showcasing local talent, artists and craftspeople, with a mix of items for home and garden. Everything from pet portraits, wooden quilts, casual comfy hammocks and teak furniture. A mix of whimsical with the practical in a showroom that is constantly changing.
Principal owner: Cory Thompson
Year founded: The gallery just opened; the landscaping business has been operating 13 years
Number of employees: 6
How’s business? Business is great! The gallery gets a lot of support from our family of landscaping clients. Our customers come from all over the country, evidence that people love our small, charming town.
One thing I wish everyone knew about this business: The gallery is composed of items that appeal to a variety of tastes at a range of price points. We also sell Pawley’s Island hammocks and outdoor rugs.
Something you offer that a customer won’t find elsewhere: Unique items that are created by a talented local group of artists and craftspeople.
Advice to young entrepreneurs: The fear of failing – the fear of jeopardizing your future – is the biggest obstacle to creating great results. Take the road less traveled.
My first job: Providing lawn care.
Your role model (in business or in life generally): I like some of the views of Warren Buffett.
The key to a successful business: Communication and consistency.