Lighting maker chooses Charlotte for its first store

The Copper Lighting Co., which makes handmade copper light fixtures at its factory just outside Columbia, S.C., has opened its first store, at 2041 South Blvd., in Charlotte's South End neighborhood. The shop will hold a grand opening from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. tomorrow (Saturday, January 16).

Called Lantern & Scroll, the store sells predominantly outdoor light fixtures, but some indoor pieces and candles as well, said manager Karen Henderson. Her parents, John and Vicky Henderson, formed the company in the early 1990s after finding antique-quality copper lanterns amid the stock of a lighting factory that was in the process of closing. With the help of a master coppersmith who had worked at the factory, they began making such lights themselves, supplying customers in historic areas of Charleston and New Orleans.

The company's products are all made in the United States and include gas, propane and electric models. They're sold largely through home and garden stores, primarily across the Southeast, but haven't previously been available at N.C. retailers, Karen Henderson said. Customers can also visit the South End store to order custom lanterns, she said.

The Hendersons opted to put their first store in Charlotte because they view it as an emerging city and a potentially fertile market for its traditionally-styled products. Charlotte is also fairly close to the company's factory, so it can provide a quick turnaround time, Karen Henderson said.