Bijou Square asks: Where were you before you lived here?

Gabby: I was born in Cleveland, Ohio. I grew up in a small Georgia town. After attending college at Savannah College of Art and Design, I moved around a bit looking for a career and returned to Albany, GA.

Bijou Square: What brought you here?

Gabby: My boyfriend was born and raised in Norwalk. I visited him in 2004 and fell in love with New England. On my trip I heard about Read's Artspace opening and applied to be a tenant and was accepted. I moved here in March 2005.

Bijou Square: What do you do in Bridgeport?

Gabby: I own and operate a unique kids boutique in the beautifully restored Arcade Mall downtown. I sell high quality children's clothing (sizes 0-16) and gear. Both new and gently used. It's a new spin on a consignment shop and parents can join our Swap and Save Club to get discounts and swap the things their kids have outgrown for things they can wear and use now.

Bijou Square: What’s one spot you could be in Bridgeport all day and why?

Gabby: I love Seaside Park. There are places to relax at the water's edge, have a picnic, play in the sand, and a playground for kids. A little for everyone.

Bijou Square: What do you think we’re missing here?

Gabby: I think Bridgeport needs more permanent attractions for families. The occasional event at the Arena is a treat and there are seasonal events in the summer, but we need a fixture. Our residents go elsewhere in search of entertainment. Something like that would encourage them to "play at home" and bring in peole from surrounding areas. They could see Bridgeport is a safe fun place to live, work, and raise a family.