Jacklyn Zoller believes she made the right decision to move her shop, Jacklyn’s Gifts, to downtown Madison. RECORD PHOTOS/GREGG L. PARKER

MADISON – At Jacklyn’s Keepsake’s at 108 Main St., Jacklyn Zoller was seen downtown transform from a handful of businesses to offer three popular restaurants, a law office, a newspaper publishing company, an upscale furniture store and several other mom-and-pop shops.

“The best move I ever did was move to downtown historic Madison. When I first opened my store, which was on Hwy. 72, there was nothing but Bruno’s supermarket, Hardee’s and Design World. Boy, have things changed!” Zoller said.

In business for 20-plus years, Zoller has persevered as a small business owner “only because I love glass and antiques … and because of my husband George of 23 years. Without him, I never would have attempted this journey, and it has been one at that,’ she said.

“I love this town, and I love the people. It feels like family. I always encourage people to move here because of its charm,” Zoller said.

“Having a gift store/antique shop fits right in with this once sleepy street,” she said. “I’ve seen ups and downs of collectibles but, with all the changing happening here, people will always need that certain gift or piece of furniture.”

“I love working side by side with Madison Station Antiques,” Zoller said. “It’s a fun and delightful adventure.” At Jacklyn’s Gifts, she sells Fenton glass, novelty housewares and kitchenware, antiques, dolls, art candles and furniture pieces.

Born in Columbus, Ohio, Zoller attended Ohio State University and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in journalism. “My girlfriend had moved here due to a job situation and asked me to come visit her,” she said. “After 10 days, I returned home, deciding that I really wanted to live here. I packed up, moved and have never regretted my decision.”

“Of course, when I moved here, it was a small town. And look at it now … not complaining, it has been great for business,” Zoller said.

When dining out in Madison, her “two favorite places to go and get a bite to eat” are Bison’s and Main Street Cafe. “You can always depend on getting good food.”

For information, call 256-325-5444.