Sequels consignment store reopens under new ownership after fire

Donna Huddleston has traded in her Carhartts for something a little more stylish.

A former heavy equipment operator for BF Redi-Mix, Huddleston is the new owner of the downtown women’s clothing consignment store Sequels. Damaged by fire in November, the store reopened last week.

“Since I was a teenager, I always wanted to work in a clothing store,” said Huddleston, who purchased the store from Michelle Kramer. “Little did I know it would take until I got into my 50s and now I’m the owner.”

Kramer opened the store at 6389 Kootenai St. in May 2009. An accidental electrical fire destroyed all of the merchandise and damaged the building owned by Carolyn Testa.

“The fire was pretty devastating to her and it’s pretty time-consuming to set back up,” Huddleston said. “I told her if she decided not to reopen, I would love the chance.”

Fulton Construction gutted and remodeled the store, which is stocked with gently used and new clothing, shoes, purses and jewelry.

Huddleston continues to accept clothing. Anyone who consigns items will get 40 percent from sale price. After six weeks in the store, clothing items will be marked down 50 percent. For items that remain unsold, the owners can pick them up or donate items to a thrift store.

Sequels is open 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday. The store can be reached at 267-3813.