Children share imagination with costumes for ice cream

By Kaye Collins

Poppie’s Downtown Sweet Bar, Apparel and More celebrated National Ice Cream Month on Thursday, July 24. Children who were dressed in a costume received a free scoop of ice cream of their choice. They served 119 scoops of ice cream with Barbie, Belle, Bluey, Cat-boy, Tinkerbell and more. Beginning at 5 p.m. the doors swung open with all forms of characters entering to get ice cream and play games.

The characters behind the counter were Woody (Woody Goff) Jessie (Kenya Wright) and Delanie portraying Little Miss Bo Peep all from Toy Story.

After enjoying a cup of ice cream, children congregated in spaces where games such as tic-tac-toe, connect four, checkers, jingo and jigsaw puzzles were available.

Owner Kenya Wright shared she had brought in a juice bar to add to her apparel and accessories sold at Poppie’s Downtown. In March, DHEC granted approval to serve ice cream, which features sundaes, ice cream cones coated in icing and sprinkles, banana splits, and additional treats. She mentioned that banana splits are among her top-selling items.

Wright portrays Kris Kringle in the film Miracle on 34th Street. Kringle would engage with customers, informing them that they could find additional items at Macy’s. Similarly, when a customer is searching for products not available on their menu, Wright suggests visiting Mattie Jane’s Coffee, Boba and More or Ritchie’s The Scoop. “I believe we are all in business together, and by recommending other shops, we can help customers find what they need,” Wright explained. “Even though it may appear that we are competitors, we can collaborate to enhance the customer’s shopping experience.”

Every week, Poppie’s hosts a unique event to encourage customers to participate in enjoyable activities. This week featured a Kahoot night, an online educational tool that schools use to incorporate engaging activities into learning. On Saturday, August 2, they held a permanent jewelry party, which Wright mentions is a regular occurrence at the shop. The permanent jewelry includes bracelets, necklaces and anklets, designed without clasps; although they are delicate, they are durable enough to withstand daily wear.

Poppie’s also delivers. They have had 13 to 30 drinks at a time to be delivered to local businesses in Loris. They do not charge a delivery fee, but do suggest that the customer tip the driver. For delivery the order must include at least four items.

August is bringing exciting new events. Beginning Friday, Aug. 22, Poppie’s will be celebrating with the Loris Lions football fans, players and coaching staff with new hours, they will remain open until midnight after the football games. They will have sweet treats, music and an all-around good time.

Visit their Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/poppiesdowntownapparel for their calendar of events scheduled each month.