BELFAST — Deb Hall owns and operates Out On A Whimsey at 133 High Street in Belfast. Hall opened her first gift store when she was 17. It was called the Islander and was on Islesboro, where she is originally from.

“I moved it to Camden for a while, until my son was born," said Hall. "After that, I did wholesale for many years while my son was growing up. I’m 53 now and have just always done it.”

Hall lives with husband, Dennis, who is from Belfast, in Northport and has operated Out On A Whimsey at its present location for the past 24 years.

Belfast has enjoyed continued growth in the past few years and many people we have spoken to in the city have attested to the city's support for that successful growth.

“The town is very helpful,” said Hall. “They’re a huge supporter of business. Right now they are going after a grant to help businesses.”

Regardless of a town government’s support, winter always is a slower time and sometimes trying on a small business.

“This winter, it’s not so bad,” said Hall. “Some days are better than others, but there’s always birthdays and there are always grandmas.”

Out On A Whimsey was a general gift store until last year when Hall shifted gears and began stocking all toys with an emphasis on education.

“Absolutely it was a good move,” said Hall. “I cater to newborn to around 12 years old. Art kits are a really big seller, but stickers are the most popular. Kids can get a big sticker pad for around $5 and you just can’t beat that.”

Hall said Belfast is a combination of good things coming together to attract people.

“There are good places to eat, good places to shop, the Co-op is here and people are moving into town and discovering Belfast," she said. "I want to see it keep growing. I have no problem with that.”

Out On A Whimsy allows you to shop online through its website. There are online specials and testimonials from satisfied customers. In their own words, “Out On A Whimsey offers an extensive collection of imaginative, whimsical and original gifts for every occasion, recipient and budget. Our goal is to make gift giving fun and easy. Everyone deserves a little whimsy.”

Hall feels as though her store fills a void. In 20 years as a gift shop owner she has watched how people buy with interest.

“It’s changed a lot,” said Hall. “People buy a lot more for children now.”