ECLECTIC "Soul" INORONO

When Tracy Darcy opened her Metropolitan Soul store in downtown Bangor six years ago, she liked to describe it by stating it was filled with "adornment and accessories for the body and home."  With the August opening of the downtown Orono store her eyes still sparkle when giving that description, while simultaneously calling the phrase "passe" and insisting on a one word description for this newest addition to Orono's business district; "eclectic." She follows with another single word, "Funky."  It isn't long before she adds "family friendly"and when pressed about "why Orono?" she can't help it when she confidently admits that while there is something for everyone here, she feels the store will fit into the "College Vibe".

Cara Oleksyk (pronounced like the 'car' and not 'care') was equally passionate and animated in her descriptions.  Cara focussed more on the artsy element of the store.  She loves the local art that is displayed and sold here.  Cara also loves the connections that are made when a local artist is given the opportunity not only to show work, but to be able to sell work and have a venue for the work to meet the customer and ultimately for the customer to know the artist.  "Local" was theme in speaking with Cara.  Bicycle parts from another downtown business, Rose Bike, are sent away to artisan instead of going to the landfill, and are made into useful, attractive and just plain cool accessories for the home, the dorm room or camp.  She loves this circle of life and art and I have to admit, I thought it was pretty cool.

Orono's Metropolitan Soul adds a new flair in downtown that compliments the other stores and adds a certain something that seems to make it fit right in and feel like it's been there longer than just since August.  You will find art, reusable hand-warmers, vintage clothing, shoes, many re-purposed items along with unique and practical gifts.  Who knew there was even such a thing as a personal birthday cake - complete with icing - that you simply mix up, throw in the microwave and present to that special someone?

Check out www.metsoul.com and find them on facebook.

Funky And Eclectic, the Metropolitan Soul is worth the visit and is another reason we love living INORONO!