By Kathy L. Collins
It is with a heavy heart that Debbie Ploor, owner of Orange Home Décor in Valrico, is closing her beloved store. Orange Home Décor, located at 1046 Bloomingdale Ave., will officially close on Monday, July 31.
Ploor is closing the store in order to spend more quality time with her husband of 39 years, Rick, who has been diagnosed with cancer. Ploor also wants to have the flexibility to visit their daughters, Allison and Sarah who live in New York and San Francisco, respectively. Ploor said, “I am sad about closing the store, but I have no regrets. I would have regretted it if I had never opened the store 11 years ago.”
Ploor added, “When I started the store, I could not find the items I sell without going to South Tampa or Sarasota.” Ploor has done all of the buying for the store over the last 11 years. She does more than just buy items. She gets to know the artists who create the pieces that she sells. “So much of this store has been a part of me,” said Ploor.
Orange Home Décor has become a gathering place. In addition to selling unique, artistic items, Ploor has been an ardent supporter of various community non-profits. She has opened the store and held countless events benefitting organizations that serve the community. “It has been an honor to serve the community. I want to thank everyone for the love and support they have shown me over the years. I hope they enjoyed it as much as I have,” added Ploor.
Ploor sent a note to all of her customers and friends advising them of her decision. Within minutes of sending the note, she was flooded with notes expressing love for her and the store. Ploor said, “The people make the store. That is what I will miss the most.”
Ploor has marked down the items in the store, so if you have ever wanted an artistic piece for your home, now is the time to get to Orange Home Décor. She plans to stay connected with the community.
For more information, please visit www.orangehomedecor.com.
