Empowering entrepreneurs: Inside 36 West’s innovative rentable spaces for small business success
Photos by Rachel Howard
In the realm of entrepreneurship, the demand for adaptable and autonomous workspaces is at an all-time high. Recognizing this need, 36 West emerges, offering more than just rental space – it’s a gateway to entrepreneurial freedom and success.
Located in historic downtown Hartselle, this innovative space caters to a diverse range of professionals, from architects seeking client meeting venues to artists in search of inspirational workspaces and business owners requiring retail space for their merchandise. Regardless of the field, 36 West provides the platform for small business owners to cultivate their dreams without constraints.
The hassle of property management and maintenance becomes a thing of the past, allowing entrepreneurs to focus solely on business growth and development.
Jade Chowning, property manager and part interest holder of the new business said this is the perfect time in Hartselle’s growth for a business like 36 West.
“Hartselle is obviously growing and there are not a lot of options for small business owners,” she said. “This is a good, cost-efficient option for people who can’t pay $1,000 a month for rent.
“More than that, we want the community to be involved in this too.”
Chowning said she envisions an environment where community members stop by to meet and greet business owners regularly.
“We will have pop-up shops where people will come for the day and we will be open for Depot Days and other city-wide events,” Chowning added.
There are currently five small businesses in 36 West including a natural soap and home goods retailer, a bookstore and a photography studio. The second phase is currently under construction.
Chowning said the second phase will be build-to-suite where business owners can design their own space that suites their needs.
Brittni Witcher owns L&L Creations. She makes all natural products that began with goat milk soap because her son Liam had eczema.
“I took him to the doctor, and we were prescribed steroids. I used it to calm it down, but I didn’t want to keep using steroids indefinitely,” Witcher said. “I did lots and lots and lots of research and ended up on goats’ milk soap.
“I decided to make it for him and thought ‘Well, if I’m going to make it, I might as well sell it.’”
Witcher said her business snowballed from there to her storefront now located at 36 West.
She sells shower steamers, room sprays, sugar sprays and candles.
“It’s all natural, that’s my kick, no fragrance, no chemicals, just what the earth gives us,” Witcher said.
Before 36 West opened, Witcher ran her small business out of her home.
“That got to be hectic,” she said with her two young sons, Logan and Liam at home. “This gives me a place to come and be creative.
“When I’m home, I get to focus on being home, tending to laundry and cooking and the kids – here I can focus. Not to mention, it’s a great location. It’s only a matter of time before people are going nuts over this place.”
“Everybody has been super nice and friendly – plus it’s really nice to get to write one check and be done with it,” she added. “I don’t have to worry about the internet or utilities. I love the simplicity of it.”
“I would not have been able have a store front if it hadn’t been for this place.”
Beyond the physical space, 36 West fosters a supportive community of like-minded individuals, encouraging collaboration and creativity.
36 West is located at 209 Main St. W, Hartselle.
To contact Chowning about rental opportunities, email 36Westhartselle@gmail.com.
