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A retired couple turns their gift shop dreams into a successful reality

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For many, the thought of retiring conjures images of sandy beaches and sunsets fading into blue horizons. But for Gail Desrosier and her husband Tom, owners of the Eagle’s Nest Gallery in Westerly, retirement is all about working for themselves.

“We started our business in 2006 when Tom retired after 33 years as a Commander in the US Navy Submarine Force,” says Gail. “In May of 2010 we expanded when the business next door moved down the street and we were able to open up the wall to acquire more space.”

The Eagle’s Nest Gallery is now a prime spot for anyone looking for “Made In America” products, including East Providence’s John Medeiros Jewelry Collection. Other such items include necklaces, rings, greeting cards, gifts, blown glass, beach towels and more.

In addition to being a leading Trollbeads retailer, the Eagle’s Nest Gallery is the area’s largest seller of the Vera Bradley Sterling Silver line (which includes silver-faced watches set in signature patterned straps). With summer swimming into the Rhode Island harbor it’s only appropriate that the Eagle’s Next Gallery stocks a wide range of beach products. “We are currently anticipating a great summer season at the beach and parks,” says Gail, “so we have everything to make a perfect picnic.” Their summer selection includes vinyl beach totes for an easy trip to the ocean and sarongs, or flip-flops, for keeping your feet safe from the sun-baked sand or tar. Feel free to ask Gail or Tom any questions while browsing through their selection. After all, Gail herself loves talking about personal style: “I always carry either a Vera or Brighton or Danny K handbag, and I wear John Medeiros and Trollbeads jewelry. I enjoy wearing Eliza B sandals in warm weather and use Camille Beckman lotion.”

The Eagle’s Nest Gallery supports the Wounded Warriors Fund through donations for gift wrapping. Gail and Tom also offer a 10% discount for all retired and active duty members of the military. This deal is in addition to their Frequent Buyers Club program, which is open to all customers, and gives $20 off purchases totalling more than $200.

Selling “Made In America” products is what makes the Eagle’s Nest Gallery unique, though it is their commitment to supporting local artists that sets them apart from the competition. Rhode Island is ripe with up-and-coming artists and the Eagle’s Nest Gallery is proud to stock their shelves with funky, homemade, artistic pieces of jewelry, pottery, sculptures and more.

Beginning a small business in today’s economy may be a risky endeavor, but Gail and Tom are pouring their heart and soul into their dream. With six years under their belt, they are proving that mom-and-pop shops still have a place among today’s economic climate.

Eagle's Nest Gallery, small business, Westerly, John Medeiros Jewelry, Vera Bradley, gift shop, made in America, Trollbeads

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