Seniors Shop For New Clothing

The owner of a popular Rhode-Island women's clothing store brought his winter lineup to the Monday afternoon.

In 1963, the Bea Smith opened a dress shop in Westerly, R.I. and in 1984, her grandson left college and took over the family business.  And on Monday, he brought his stockpile to the residents of for . 

"It was something I wanted to do since I was a little kid," said current owner Raymond Smith. 

During the 90s, shops were closing in Westerly, however Smith developed an idea to keep his business going. He started calling retirement communities and taking orders for merchandise. Shortly thereafter, Smith took his inventory on the road and started "conducting trunk shows in local retirement communities," according to his website.

"We are targeting ladies who don't drive," Smith said. "I have a system."

Smith said his "trunk shows" are so successful because the clothing brands are the same ones that the women bought from big box stores years ago such as Sage Allen and .

Smith visits 75 different clients a couple of times a year and is on the road Monday through Friday. He visits Rocky Hill twice a year.

"I am fortunate that I love what I do," Smith said.

At the end of each "trunk show," Smith will hold a raffle with prizes of sweaters and handbags.

For more information on Bea Smith's store, visit their website or call 401-596-3522.