BARDSTOWN, Ky. — Bardstown, Kentucky is known for bourbon.
But one local business owner wants the small town to become known for something else — Halloween.
Specifically, Kelsey Williams' horror and Halloween shop, HallowScents.
Williams opened the shop in May and said business has been so good, she expanded into additional space next door.
"I think people wanted this store, they just didn't have it, and now that we opened it we're like a big family," she said.
Williams said her shop is the only year-round option in Kentucky for shoppers looking for a horror/Halloween specialty shop.
It's a niche she's happy to fill.
"People love being scared and it's funny to say, but they love that adrenaline," Williams said.
The shop doesn't stick to the usual costumes and candy corn though. It actually started with her horror-themed bath line, with products like wax bars and scrubs.
"I wasn't sure if someone's going to enjoy a sugar scrub or body wash or bath bomb, but that has been the biggest hit," Williams said.
She said the shop has been filled with locals, regulars and visitors from states away.
"The very first customer that came in, she drove by herself from Nashville, Tennessee just in one day to come shop," Williams said.
She also attributes some of the shop's success to the community.
"I enjoy and just love coming to work and meeting all the new people that come in," she said. "The city of Bardstown and the people of Bardstown have been so welcoming."
Williams said she is already preparing and stocking up for a busy Halloween season.
HallowScents is located at 512 E Stephen Foster Ave in Bardstown.
You can find the shop online here.
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