After 35 years in New York City, Ann Gargiulo felt ready for a calmer pace of life. She worked hard handling the stage performing rights for Broadway musicals, yet as she strolled in Central Park, she began to yearn for a life in the country.

“I read an article by George Morris about the most horse-friendly towns in the South,” she said. “John and I had a look at Tryon, and I fell in love with the place.”

Tryon had arts, crafts, mountains, horses, golf, outdoor activities and opportunities for community involvement. It fit every criteria. The town proved to be a special place for her mother, too; Ann’s mother and stepfather moved to Tryon when she did, and her mother died in 2007 at the age of 102 ½.

“We were so fortunate to find Tryon Estates,” Ann says.

Ann was used to keeping very busy, so it wasn’t long before she opened Vines and Stuff, a gift shop on the main street of Tryon. Her husband, John, owns and manages the building.

“I really strive to have a welcoming, enjoyable experience, with a large variety of items so that people don’t have to go out of town to shop,” she said. “I like having a diversity of products to encourage people to shop locally.”