I think we can all agree that the city of Lafayette is basically a big version of a small town. The shopping and dining options are seemingly limitless and conveniently located. But what if I told you that some of the most delightful nuggets that Acadiana has to offer are found in the real small towns that are only a short drive outside of the Lafayette city limits. These small town, small businesses are all run by moms and are thriving just a short drive away. Allow me to introduce you to some of the Best Little Places (#BestLittlePlaces) in Acadiana!
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Eight years ago, we moved out of a tiny rent house into our first home; a small, shot-gun style house with a fresh face lift. In a stroke of good fortune, I ventured in to Fireflies one afternoon and left with great furniture and a new friend.
Who?
Shop owner, Bethany Dudding, a small-town girl who was “found” during a weekend trip to Round Rock, Tx. “The creativity and attention to detail the vendors put into their booths were like nothing I had ever seen before. It was inspiring and I was completely smitten.” She’s also Mom to Jack, age 9 and Adley, age 7.
What?
Fireflies Home & Garden, “a blend of vintage and vintage-inspired home goods and gifts featuring both farmhouse and French country cottage appeal. Nothing too ornate or overwhelming; classic, simple and rustic.”
When?
In 2007, Bethany and her husband purchased the building and after two years of major renovations, Fireflies Home & Garden was born!
Where?
410 S. Adams St, Rayne, La
14 miles/23-minute drive from the Cajundome
12 miles/24-minute drive from the Acadiana Mall
29 miles/34-minute drive from Zoosiana
Store hours: Thursday & Friday, 10-5, Saturday 10-2 Phone: 337-334-0044 & on Facebook @fireflieshomeandgarden
Why?
You’ll only need one visit to Fireflies to understand why people are continually drawn to this store; creativity, authenticity and charm fill every corner of the room. Think ‘Waco charm meets Cajun hospitality.’
In Bethany’s own words.
“I love antiques… the history they tell, their details, their patinas, rust and all. I think about the people who used them, who made them & how hard they worked…”
“There is a certain amount of vulnerability that goes along with (owning a small business.) You put yourself out there and hope people like what they see. I love getting excited with my customers over a new item in the shop, new or vintage. Or seeing the excitement on their faces over a new set up that I’ve worked really hard on. That excitement turns into conversations, many of which have led to friendships…”
“Nothing feels better than when someone walks into the shop for the first time, appreciates what they see and asks, “Are you the owner?” which I never get tired of hearing.”
A little lagniappe
If you’re planning a visit to Fireflies, be prepared to stay a little longer. Because the neighboring shops on South Adams Ave, positioned over the span of only 2 city blocks, are gems of their own right and definitely deserve a spot on your regular shopping routine.
Family owned and operated, Mon Reve Boutique, serves as the unofficial the starting point for shops along South Adams Ave, they carry clothes (sizes SM – XXXL), shoes and accessories, along with children’s clothes and more!
Lollihops Children’s Boutique is a fresh, modern boutique for children’s accessories, clothing and gifts. Shop owners, Erica & Mona have a knack for helping their customers find that perfect outfit for a special event, help a new mom get the nursery ready and even help you and your tween find some common ground… at least where clothes are concerned!
Bombshell Beauty Bath Cosmetics is a shopping experience for all your senses. Their handmade soaps, bath bombs, bath salts, bubble baths, body butters and more are available in 30+ scents and make perfect gifts. (Especially for yourself at the end of a long day!)
Wright Décor, another family owned business, offering home décor and gifts, has a different but completely complimentary feel to it’s neighbor. The shelves are also stocked with variety of fragrance lines, so be prepared to be swept off your feet as soon as you walk in the door.
With two locations, LondonEE & Co. Boutique offers a unique selection of clothing (sizes SM – XXXL, shoes and accessories sure to put a smile on any girls’ face. They thrive on building relationships with their customers and believe that each interaction is an opportunity to do what they love!
STAY TUNED.
We want to show you more of the #BestLittlePlaces around.
Great job Jenny !!!!!
You captured Fireflies & shop owner, Bethany so beautifully!!! Makes me want to drive to Rayne.
Oh wait . . . I live in Rayne . . . and love it ?
Come on area folks . . . come discover Fireflies and the great shops nearby !!!!!