Shopping At Junebug's

She worked full-time before she had her daughter.

Like many work-minded mothers, Jennifer Vitale wished for a job that could provide for her and her child, but she didn't want to be away from her for nine hours of the day.

She tried an at-home business, but that didn't work out.

Vitale was immersed in toys, kids' clothes and accessories, so it made sense to open her own children's supply shop.

"I'm happy being in my first year and already being able to move to a larger store," she said.

Junebug's Children Store is now located at 6163 Deltona Blvd. - a traffic-heavy location because of its proximity to U.S. 19, Spring Hill Drive, a fire station and several major retailers.

"It's also an easier location for us," Vitale said. "People see our sign and drive in. We've gotten a lot of customers that way."

The name of the store came from Vitale's 4-year-old daughter - Alea June Spiridakos. "Junebug" is her nickname.

Vitale, 32, previously worked at another local children's store, which had two locations. She was expecting to purchase the Brooksville store, but the owners changed their minds.

She and her employers had an amicable split and she soon opened her own business off Castille Drive.

Her merchandise expanded and she needed a larger space. In March, she moved northwest to the corner of Deltona and Forest Oaks Boulevard.

Junebug's sells everything from strollers and car seats to shoes and clothes. There are supplies available for infants, toddlers, children, teens and new mothers.

The shirts and pants brought in for an exchange must have no stains or tears.

Customers may sell their kids' clothes by appointment. Otherwise they can either receive store credits or agree to a consignment - which is earning half of the items' sale price.

She has four people - including her mother -who assist her with the store.

Every Monday, she offers half off all clothes and shoes. On Wednesday, children's books are discounted 50 percent.

Story times are available for local children at 11 a.m. every Wednesday. Usually, stories are meant for kids ages 2 to 4.

A Massachusetts native, Vitale has lived in Spring Hill for four years.

She often donates unsold clothes to local Catholic charities, supports the local Relay For Life and is on the committee for the World's Greatest Baby Shower.

"We'll carry everything you would need for a kid," said Vitale, "or a mom."

Biz at a glance:

Name of biz - Junebug's Children Store

Owner - Jennifer Vitale

What it is - Clothing and supply store/exchange for children and mothers

Where it is - 6163 Deltona Blvd. in Spring Hill

Hours of operation - 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday

Get in touch - 352-597-1241