In a heartwarming tale of ambition and nostalgia, a young woman from Virginia is making waves in the small business world, even before she officially steps into her college journey. Lindsay Goodwin, a recent high school graduate, is breathing new life into the Olde Towne community of Portsmouth with her charming general store.
Having spent her childhood exploring quaint general stores nestled in the mountains of North Carolina, Lindsay was inspired to recreate that warm, nostalgic atmosphere in her own town. Since co-owning the Marketplace and General Store in Olde Towne Portsmouth in 2023, she has taken a significant step into the world of entrepreneurship.
Now embarking on her freshman year at Virginia Wesleyan University, where she plans to major in Arts, Lindsay acknowledges the challenge of balancing her studies with running a business. However, she is eager to embrace the opportunity. “Portsmouth is rich in history, and we wanted to revive that classic feel while also creating a welcoming family space for everyone to enjoy,” she shared with local news.
Partnering with her father, Tony Goodwin, who has extensive experience in commercial real estate, Lindsay’s venture is built on a foundation of community spirit. Tony emphasizes the store’s role in offering Lindsay valuable business experience, connecting her to her roots, and providing a pathway to a fulfilling career.
While the store experiences peaks in foot traffic during holidays and local events, the father-daughter duo remains focused on the joy their establishment brings to customers. “When visitors come in and say, ‘This reminds me of home,’ it reinforces why we started this journey,” Tony reflected. “We’ve created a nostalgic space that truly complements Olde Towne.”
Furthermore, the Goodwins see their store as a vital part of revitalizing High Street, which has faced its challenges over the years due to vacancies. For Lindsay, her immediate goals are clear: maintain sales, cultivate a positive atmosphere, and succeed in her classes—all while enjoying the journey ahead.
This inspiring father-daughter team is not just enriching their own lives but also contributing to the beautification and vibrancy of their historic city. Their story is a wonderful reminder of the power of dreams, community, and the timeless charm of small businesses.
