For college students in Clinton, finding ways to have fun without breaking the bank can
be challenging. With Greenville and Columbia, the closest urban areas to Clinton, both being
over forty minutes away, traveling to larger cities for shopping, dining, or entertainment isn’t
always super convenient. With the busy schedules combined with the impatience of college students,
it’s often difficult to find these trips to larger cities enjoyable or even achievable. Aside from the
time and resources it takes to get to these places, many college students are unable to work
during the school year, so money can be tight. Fortunately, there are a few local businesses right
here in Clinton that offer discounts to PC students, making it easier to enjoy free time without
spending too much money or traveling far.

One business that offers discounts to PC students is Tapestry, a women’s boutique located
just minutes from campus. We spoke with Megan Knight, the store’s owner, to learn more about
what they offer and their student discounts. Tapestry, which has been in business since 1986,
offers unique women’s apparel, gifts, and accessories. Megan started working at the store when
she was in high school in 2010 and took on full ownership in June of 2022. Tapestry offers ten
percent off regular-priced items for PC students as well as students at the Pharmacy, PA, and OT
schools. Megan says her incentive to provide discounts is “to bring PC students into the store and
try to connect with the students and the community.” She also says, “It’s a great way to bring
awareness to our store in such a small town and it’s nice to offer something special to students
who come to school in Clinton.”

According to Megan, she sees this discount as a benefit to PC students besides just saving money. “Many college students don’t have jobs while they are in school,” Megan states, “so providing a discount is just our way of helping them out a little bit. I consider it a win/win for both our business and the students. It’s also a nice way to get them to
come in, look around, and enjoy what our store has to offer!” Megan truly has an entrepreneurial spirit. She sees her store’s discount for PC students as much more than just helping them save money. The connections she and her employees have made with students and the joy that her store brings to the Clinton community are worth far more than any discount could add up to!

By becoming familiar with and supporting our local small businesses, we can also
contribute to the economic growth and identity of our community, whether that’s right here in
Clinton or anywhere else. Small businesses are the backbone of local communities, and when
they can reinvest back into our communities and diversify the local job market and economy, it’s
a win-win for everybody! This is why we believe it’s important for businesses in small towns
like Clinton to incentivize students to get in the door, when they otherwise likely wouldn’t have
even known these deals, like at Tapestry, were right in their own backyard.

Another one of those businesses is Sunshine City, run by Ashley Martin. She’s a member
of the Clinton community that we were also given the chance to interview for her quick thoughts
on the subject. Ashley runs a tanning salon less than a mile from campus. Sunshine City opened
its doors in 2003 right here in Clinton and has been a lovely addition to the community ever
since. When asked what kind of discounts Sunshine City offered to PC students, Ashley
informed us that the salon “offers a PC semester package to each of our tanning beds” and it’s
one of her goals “to draw students in by offering this discount.” She also mentioned, “In the past,
we have also offered a percentage off coupon during parents’ weekend and homecoming.” With
the same hope of drawing more students in, and we certainly hope more business comes her
way!

For college students in Clinton, every dollar saved can make a difference, and the
businesses in our community recognize that. Stores like Tapestry and Sunshine City aren’t just
offering discounts—they’re building relationships, fostering a sense of community, and ensuring
that students (and their families) feel welcomed and valued. By choosing to shop locally, PC
students not only save money but also contribute to the vitality of Clinton’s small businesses.
The next time you’re looking for a new outfit, a gift, or even a relaxing tanning session,
remember that some of the best deals are right down the street. Supporting local businesses isn’t
just a smart financial choice—it’s an investment in the place you call home.