New 'Sassy Pony' store downtown boasts lively look

A new shop with attitude and flair has found a home on Laurens Street in downtown Aiken.

Filling the vacancy left by the Tennis & Squash Shop, the Sassy Pony is the new shop on the block.

Walking past the storefront, one's attention is immediately drawn to the vibrant colors of the storefront window, where owner Tara Amick displays a variety of the shop's artwork.

Amick and her husband Buddy Stevens purchased the Market Place Antique property on Park Avenue about two years ago. At that time, they decided to keep the store open while they finalized plans on the property.

"While operating the store, we developed friendships and a sense of commitment to the downtown retail atmosphere," said Amick. "When the property on Laurens Street became available, we took our best 20 dealers and moved to our new location."

The move called for a new name that reflected the attitude of the shop, the employees and the merchandise; the name Sassy Pony was born.

In addition to a new name, the store also expanded its inventory to carry new gift lines, gourmet foods and more original artwork.

The shop is a reflection of Amick's talents and personality.

"As an artist and decorator, it has been such a wonderful experience seeing first hand the unique furniture and accessories the dealers bring into the store. ... My dream has always been to open an art gallery, and I have started collecting art from local and regional artists," she said.

The new shop has utilized every nook and cranny of the store's space, even converting the break room into retail space.

Many treasures await discovery at the Sassy Pony.

"I love the unique downtown atmosphere in Aiken. People enjoy shopping, dining and strolling through our antique malls, and I feel privileged to be a part of what makes Aiken such a wonderful place to visit or live," smiled Amick as she greeted a customer.

The look is lively, the employees are spirited and the store is sassy.

The Sassy Pony is located at 150-B Laurens St. S.W. and may be reached by phone at 644-7523.