Consumer Stories

Kay Castro wants to take some of the hassle out of buying and selling items online, which has become an increasingly popular way to shop and earn money. Castro – owner of Martinez Drop located at 472 Flowing Wells Road, J4 behind Farmhaus Burger in Martinez, allows online sellers to drop off their items at her warehouse, and buyers pick up those items from her. Sales are generally conducted through the business’ Facebook group, and she charges a 10% fee for all items sold and picked up at Martinez Drop.

Bretta Farina launched her custom dog collar business to make a living and provide flexible job opportunities for women. Farina – owner and founder of Puddle Jumper Pups, started her online business nine years ago and estimates she’s sold about 1 million collars so far. “When my husband joined the military, I needed a job, too,” says the Tennessee native and mother of two. “I needed an income, and it needed to be flexible.” Next spring, she will open her first storefront, located at 261 Meridian Drive near Aldi and

A local entrepreneur is celebrating her fourth anniversary in business by hosting a pop-up event in downtown Augusta. Jasmine Ryans – owner and founder of an elegant plant-based skincare company called Soul(tre) Natural, will hold the event on Sunday, Sept.19 from 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Augusta & Co. located at 1010 Broad St. near Pineapple Ink Tavern. Attendees will have the opportunity to see live demonstrations with models and shop for the company’s toxin-free products, which include moisturizing creams and facial cleansers. According to a news release issued