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Hernando Today

She Does It All With Color

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By TONY HOLT, Hernando Today

Published: February 4, 2008

SPRING HILL - Deborah Buckwalter has a unique touch.

It is displayed throughout her new store, which attracts a variety of shoppers - from the home decor gurus to those men looking for a unique anniversary or Valentine's Day gift.

She makes her own jewelry, turns silk into vibrant floral arrangements and provides sound advice on how to turn a bland corner of a room into an eye-catching explosion of color.

The multi-colored designs have actually turned the store into something of a haven for customers.

"So many people come in and say 'I had a bad day ... I want to come to my happy place,'" Buckwalter said. "This is a happy shopping experience. They leave with a big smile."

Le Cache is located along Spring Hill Drive, just west of the Barclay Avenue intersection - the area known as the "new Spring Hill."

In addition to the floral arrangements and jewelry, Buckwalter also sells ornaments, art glass, stone-framed mirrors, Green Leaf scented candles, linen refresheners, handmade potpourri and other assorted items for the home.

"Men love the art glass (items) in the store," she said. "Men really like this place ... Yeah, believe it or not."

She emphasized how important her store can be in the days and weeks leading to Valentine's Day. Instead of roses and chocolates, something more uniquely ornamental or lasting could make a better gift.
Buckwalter has been in the decor business since she was 18 years old. After a 10-year hiatus, she reemerged by opening her latest store last fall.

Her clientele grew after Christmas. She sees regular customers traveling from Tampa to Crystal River.

"It's a fun, neighborhood place to go to," she said. "I have some of the same customers coming in. I just need more."
Buckwalter typically plays opera and soothing classical music, which adds even more to the ambiance. In her free time, she likes the neo-soul artists like Seal, but while she is working, she prefers the intellectual-stimulating sounds of the classics.

Her mother occasionally assists her on a part-time basis, but Buckwalter does mostly everything at the store.

The 42-year-old blonde makes the merchandise, orders the art glass and scented candles, decorates the store and opens and closes her business each day.

Nothing compares to her life 15 years ago when owned her own clothing boutique in Tarpon Springs, particularly during the tourist season.

She was open every day and kept brutal hours throughout. When the crowds came, she had to be ready.

Now business is steadier and more manageable. She hopes Le Cache stays around for the long-term.

"This place offers a little something for everybody," Buckwalter said. "They all know they can find something here."

Biz at a glance:

Name of biz: Le Cache

Owner: Deborah Buckwalter
Where it is: 14313 Spring Hill Drive

What it is: Home decor store

Days of operation: Tuesday through Saturday

Get in touch: 352-688-3324

Reporter Tony Holt can be reached at 352-544-5283 or wholt@hernandotoday.com.

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