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The French Bee Owner Hopes Job Is 'Forever'

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By MICHAEL H. SAMUELS, The Tampa Tribune

Published: October 10, 2007

TAMPA - Malissa Ward says she has found the last job she'll ever have.

Ward is owner of The French Bee, a new antique and interior design store at 3626 S. Manhattan Ave. It's the first solo venture into business for the single mother.

'This is what I want to do forever,' she said.

The store carries antique furniture and accessories, rugs, vintage garden accessories, custom florals, and custom and antique jewelry by Linda Bever, former owner of Baubles.

Ward said the variety of offerings, including interior design services, will make the shop a success.

'I've already developed a following,' she said. 'Once you do that, they'll come again and again.'

Originally an interior designer, Ward previously owned an iSold It on eBay franchise. She has combined her love of collecting and interior design in the new store.

Her daughter Cristina, 15, named the store. They wanted something they could brand and use a symbol with, Ward said.

The store is open from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday to Saturday and by appointment.

For information, call (813) 831-5566.

Bungalow Bistro Set To Open

After years of restoration, the Bungalow Bistro is ready to open.

The restaurant, 5137 N. Florida Ave., serves breakfast and lunch. The menu includes warm pastries, daily quiches, gourmet sandwiches, salads, soup and desserts.

There's seating for 75, with upstairs dining for private parties.

Owners Michael and Elizabeth Graham say they worked to preserve the historical details in the building, a garage apartment saved from demolition when Hillsborough Avenue was widened in 2000.

The main house and garage were moved to Florida, and the Grahams opened Forever Beautiful Salon and Day Spa in the house in 2002.

The restaurant is open from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesday to Saturday.

For information, call (813) 237-2000.

South Tampa Chamber To Host Business Expo
The South Tampa Chamber of Commerce will host a business expo from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Oct. 17 at the Centre Club, 123 S. West Shore Blvd.

More than 30 businesses will display their products and services, including restaurants, shops, professional and personal services, and banks.

'It is a venue for our members to be able to display their businesses in a casual networking atmosphere,' said Judy Gay, the chamber's executive director. 'It will let the community and other members know a little bit about their business.'

The chamber was founded in 1926 and has more than 450 business, professional and nonprofit organization members.

Expo tickets are $15.

For information, call (813) 637-0156.

Opening a new business? Expanding or relocating? Contact reporter Michael H. Samuels at msamuels@tampatrib.com or (813) 835-2109.

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