If you’ve walked down Main Street recently, you may have noticed a bright and welcoming new look at Poppy & Polka Dot—and it’s turning heads for all the right reasons.
Thanks to a Downtown Façade Improvement Grant, the boutique was able to complete exterior upgrades that better reflect the energy and personality found inside the shop. The project, which began in late August and wrapped up by the end of September 2025, included a refreshed storefront, new awning, and design elements that bring a clean, cohesive look to this stretch of downtown.
“We love having our façade reflect the happy, clean vibes of our business,” shared owner Amanda Beals and her team.
The design, created by Carla Haskell through a Heart of Ellsworth microgrant, helped bring the vision to life. This great collaboration was paired with the work of local partners including Patriot Home Contractors and Wallace Awning.
While the transformation is still fresh, one thing is already clear: people are noticing. “We hear all the time, ‘Oh … I didn’t know you were here!’” the team shared, highlighting how impactful a strong storefront can be in connecting businesses with the community.
This project is part of a broader effort to support downtown businesses through façade improvements, enhancing curb appeal, preserving character, and strengthening Ellsworth’s economic vitality.
It’s also a great reminder for fellow business owners: opportunities like this exist, and they can make a meaningful difference. As Amanda puts it, “Advocate for your building and your business. When the community asks how they can help—tell them.”
Projects like this don’t just improve buildings, they help shape the experience of downtown Ellsworth, one storefront at a time.
