By Kate Bartlett
Bemus Point locals and visitors are undoubtedly familiar with The Ugly Peacock, the eclectic, creative boutique shop located at 19 Main Street in the heart of the town. But what most don’t know are the many talents of owner and operator Claire Gese Sleggs.
Claire was born and raised in Bemus Point. She graduated and left the area, and like a lot of Bemus residents, she returned to the area to raise her family. “I would describe myself as a creative, passionate business woman with a lot of pans in the fire.” She is currently working at the shop and renovating her third Airbnb in the village. When she is not busy working, Claire loves to spend time with her family and friends. “I love to read, drink red wine and I love a good sense of humor! I paint and create art which often finds its way into the shop.”
The shop began as a ten-week diversion from her primary business of staging and renovating houses. “My customers become busy during the Chautauqua season and they prefer that I’m in their home after the season ends. So, I opened a shop that would reflect the choices I would make if I was on vacation shopping.”
The Ugly Peacock started ten years ago in a small space next to Copolla’s Pizza in Bemus Point, NY. She moved to her current location three years ago and the business has taken on a life of its own. “I have four employees who work for me while I work on outside projects. When my next Airbnb is finished, I will begin renovating the garage next to the shop to accommodate clothing.”
The Ugly Peacock is open more or less from Memorial Day to Labor Day, ending the season with Bemus Point Fall Fest, two weekends after Labor Day. The name was derived from the Hans Christian Andersen fable, The Ugly Duckling. “Some of the homes I work on start as ugly ducklings and become beautiful by the end. The Ugly Duckling name was taken, so I chose The Ugly Peacock. It is a memorable name!”
For years I’ve described the Ugly Peacock as a place to shop for cynical, sarcastic, meaningful gifts in a romantic setting. I scour national flea markets and drag things across the country to offer shoppers something unique. I strive to incorporate hand-made items shoppers won’t find elsewhere. I love what I do and I appreciate the opportunity to share my passions with you!”
Visit Claire at the Ugly Peacock at 19 Main Street or online. Call or text (716) 499-0563 follow on social media @ theuglypeacock. For more information on Airbnb: TUP Apartment Downtown Bemus WG Summer House by the lake or email theuglypeacock@gmail.com.