Write a commentThe following is an interview conducted with Karen Krakowka, owner of Duffy’s Designs:
IHO: How long have you lived in Oswego?
KK: I’ve lived in Oswego my entire life! I am proud to say that I was born and raised here.
IHO: Has owning a business/this type of business always been the dream?
KK: Helping people and decorating have always been passions of mine. When I was younger I can remember going “junk picking” and repurposing what I found and turning it into beautiful decor for our house, as well as for friends who didn’t have a budget to spend on decorating. My husband, who I refer to as “Duffy” or “Mooch” grew up learning the art of woodworking from his Uncle Duffy. After retirement, we decided it was time to combine his talent and my love for decorating, and create a shop where customers could come to find custom wood pieces, as well as beautiful items to decorate their homes. This is how Duffy’s Designs began!
IHO: When you aren’t busy running your business, what can you be found doing?
KK: Any free time I have, I enjoy spending with my family, grandchildren, and close friends. I also love spending time working in my yard and decorating my own house.
IHO: What project are you proudest of/was the most fun to create?
KK: We have had the opportunity to work with so many amazing customers on so many fun projects, but I’d have to say the wedding we helped make a reality this past Fall was one of the most run and rewarding projects yet! When one of our customers/friends informed us that their wedding venue had to cancel on them, Duffy’s stepped up to the place and helped this couple create the wedding of their dreams. One of the best parts was that we were able to work with so many other amazing local businesses to make the day one they would never forget.
IHO: What was the best community experience you’ve had since starting your business here?
KK: My favorite community experience would have to be our Annual Fall Fest, which we, unfortunately, weren’t able to do this year. Every year we take this as an opportunity to show our appreciation to all of our customers. We love to be able to offer free food and free raffles as a way to show our customers how much they mean to us. We also feel honored to be able to use this day as a time to showcase so many talented artisans we have in our community.
# # # About Duffy's Design: Duffy’s Designs is a gift shop located at 32 Hawley Street in Oswego, NY. The shop might look small from the outside, but every inch of the interior has been filled with artful displays of their wares. Duffy’s Designs provides quality handmade furniture, antiques, repurposed items, and merchandise from numerous local artisans. For the most up-to-date shop hours, check out the Duffy’s Designs Facebook page or contact them at (315)402-0209.
