Tim Smith, owner of Bettye Jane’s Fashion Exchange in downtown Johnson City, scheduled a concert at the Hideaway Feb. 25 in celebration of the store’s first anniversary.

The bands Mouth Movements, The Wayward, The Only and Generation of Vipers played to a large crowd that included Milligan students. 

“The turnout was great,” Smith said. “(The concert) was what I wanted it to be: a celebration with friends, old and new.”

Smith scheduled a concert to celebrate the first anniversary of Bettye Jane’s because he has “been a musician first and foremost,” he said. “Music inspires the way we dress, the look we want, and the attitude we have. So it only seemed right to have a show to celebrate.”

Smith, a married father of two, is originally from Morristown, Tenn. After that, he spent about six years in Portland before moving to Johnson City. 

Smith originally hated the idea of moving back to Johnson City. However, he knew he needed a change in his life.

“At that point in my life, I was getting towards the end of a destructive lifestyle characterized by my love for alcohol and little self esteem without it,” Smith said. “I had to break the cycle of addiction in my life first before I could actively pursue my dream of owning this store.”

One major thing that Smith has learned in his first year as a business owner is the importance of conveying to customers exactly what kind of store he runs.

“There are people who think we're an overpriced thrift store or a consignment shop,” Smith said. “Neither is true. We have quality vintage clothing, gently used name-brand clothing and independent fashion labels such as our own line of T shirts, hoodies and more.”

He describes his target customers as “little rock stars” who have “an eye for style and a flair for the not-so-ordinary.” 

Smith added, “You will find these people in the local art and music scene, and on MySpace.com.” 

What can be expected in Smith’s second year at Bettye Jane’s? He said, “(We will) focus more on making our own, one-of-a-kind merchandise and on pushing our screen-printing services.” 

Smith believes individuals should support local businesses over chains.

“(A local business) offers and stimulates diversity in the community,” said Smith. “When you deal with local businesses you have a better chance of being heard and appreciated. To the other big chains, you're just another number.”

Smith named his business “Bettye Jane’s” after his grandmother.

“She has always been the one who has believed in me and supported me since I was like 3 or 4,” he said.

A cherub statue given to Smith from his grandmother sits between the dressing rooms. He said, “Every time I see it, it reminds me that she's watching, praying for, and still believing in me.”

To those considering opening their own local business, Smith offers two blunt words of advice: “Do it.”