Tucked away in the Kent Street Plaza is a new lifestyle store that couples old, new and custom arts and crafts.

The Golden Sparrow opened in September and is owned by Somerset resident Carolyn Gloster, a former consumer science teacher at Somerset Berkeley Regional High School. She opened The Golden Sparrow after spending the past 12 years buying and selling goods online as a hobby.

"I felt it was time for a career change and was toying around with the idea for two years," said Mrs. Gloster. "I drew up a business plan and started looking for a location. I was told of this space and it fits our needs perfectly."

The store carries restored vintage furniture, home goods, jewelry, clothing, handmade dolls, paintings and much more. They consign certain pieces — mostly new or vintage items — at a split of 60 percent to consigner and 40 percent to the shop.

Some of the local artisans that have goods at The Golden Sparrow include Lighthouse Treasures, Sonoran water color prints, Newport Sea Salt items, Seasold custom dolls and Bash Petite heirloom dolls.

Mrs. Gloster is in the shop most days but shares the store hours with her sister, Michelle Marcoux.

“Having my sister in the store with me is the perfect fit. Our entire family does some form of art- our dad is an architectural illustrator as well as a minister,” she said.

When asked how the name for her store came about, Mrs. Gloster explained the passage in the Bible from Matthew 10:29-31 which reads: “Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground outside your Father’s care. And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. So don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.”

She added Golden to give the name a bit of panache and a feel of hope and lightness, she said.

Call The Golden Sparrow to get more information on consigning at or visit the website at www.thegoldensparrowri.com.