“I would really like for people to know that we’re there and that they don’t have to be at the hospital for some reason… They can just come in and shop if they need a gift for somebody.. I want it to be more of a destination shopping place,” said Dawn Shumaker, Gift Shop Manager at Clinton Memorial Hospital (CMH), located at 610 West Main Street in Wilmington.
The CMH gift shop started as a small shop with basic items like flowers, balloons, cards, medicine, and phone chargers. In recent years, they have expanded their inventory and now carry apparel, accessories, candles, children’s toys, seasonal items, and more. The shop also has snacks and coffee. In addition to these items, Dawn mentioned that the gift shop carries stamps and other essential items for staff members at the hospital, ensuring that they can purchase everyday items despite their long shifts that contradict with post office hours.
Dawn also mentioned that when choosing the items to feature in the gift shop, she follows current shopping trends. She mentioned specific brands such as Myra bags, Main Street earrings, Swan Creek Candles, Candleberry Candles, and Simply Southern apparel. The CMH gift shop also has monthly “special sales” with outside vendors. Recently, they hosted a special sale with Nothing Bundt Cakes.
In addition to the items sold at the gift shop, the staff also provides emotional support to those in need during a tough time. Dawn mentioned that the staff are trained to be sensitive to people’s emotions and often provide individuals entering the gift shop with a listening ear when they are experiencing a tough time. She also noted that the gift shop has a “relaxing, upbeat atmosphere,” as they play music and ensure it “always smells good.” In addition to their caring demeanor, the gift shop is also partially operated by hospital volunteers that are “valuable asset[s]” to their daily operations, according to Dawn.
The CMH gift shop hours are Monday through Friday from 10am to 4pm. Individuals can visit the shop in person or place an order over the phone.
Learn more about the gift shop or place an order by calling (937) 283-9722.