#DexterFirst Corner Cottage

Dexter, Missouri - When Kim and Gary Williams began their local home décor business 15 years ago, they had no idea how popular it would prove to be, nor how wide-spread their customer base would become. From a corner spot at Old Timers’ Antique Mall to a thriving corner location on Business Highway 60, Corner Cottage is a unique locally owned business that is a vital part of the Dexter small business community.

The business has continued to flourish, even through difficult economic times, because Williams has the ability to gauge what her customers want and adjusts her inventory to meet their needs. “We change with the times,” Williams said. “When we first opened we were country, then shabby chic, and now the farmhouse look is popular.” In addition to home décor, the Corner Cottage also carries a wide variety of dry soup, dip, and drink mixes; candles; decorative signs; jewelry and other accessory items; and handmade furniture designed and crafted by her husband Gary.

Stocking the business is a family affair as about 40 percent of their inventory is produced by Williams, her husband, and daughter Jansen.  Much of the remaining inventory comes from other small suppliers.  “We try to support regional small businesses,” Williams observed.  “We try to get as much from Missouri as possible,” noting that both Thompson Farms and Wind and Willow gourmet mixes are produced in Missouri, and Gaylord Soaps come from Jefferson City. “Our purses are a Missouri company, as well. The construction is outsourced,” she explained, “but the design, marketing, and headquarters are located near Branson.” The popular soy candles come from Indiana.

A unique aspect of her inventory, that has ties to Dexter, is jewelry provided by Luket Ministries. “This endeavor provides a sustainable income for hard-working Ugandan women through recycling old tires into new treasures,” Williams explained. “They also make paper bead jewelry.” Former elementary art teacher Ruth Gibson’s granddaughter is a missionary in Uganda working through Luket Ministries. “I am honored to be able to support the efforts of these women through my business.” 

Corner Cottage is located at 1424 West Business Highway 60 in Dexter.  They are open Monday through Saturday 10-5, and Sundays until Christmas 1-3.

They sell soy candles and melts manufactured in Indiana.

Handmade entertainment center designed and crafted by Gary Williams.