June 25th, 2019 by WCBC Radio

Mr. Toad’s Pottery, a privately owned small business, created by James and Carolyn Hilgeman, focused on building community through creativity at their paint your own pottery studio, today announced the signing of a definitive agreement to sell the business to an experienced small business owner, Ferne Benson.

Upon completion of this transaction, the former owners will enjoy their retirement and travel. Mr. Toad’s Pottery was established in 2012 and quickly became the go-to spot for creating unique ceramic art and mosaic artwork. Hilgeman said, “We opened Mr. Toad’s Pottery to provide an enjoyable activity for all ages.We are selling the business to Ms. Ferne Benson, who is very capable and shares our enthusiasm for continuing to improve Mr. Toad’s Pottery.”

Mr. Toad’s Pottery offers hundreds of choices of pottery for people to paint including bowls, boxes, figurines, mugs and plates. The studio finishes the pieces with a clear glaze and firing in a kiln. They host workshops, classes and parties that thousands have enjoyed over the last six years. Ferne Benson, Chief Executive Officer of Kebbie’s Diaper Bag, said, “With Jim & Carolyn’s ongoing support, we are well positioned to continue to grow Mr. Toad’s Pottery, as we transition to the new space under this new ownership. We plan to be open seven days a week thus creating three to five more local jobs right here in Allegany County. With further investment in space, location and accessibility, we remain committed to delivering the best paint your own pottery experience that our customers have come to expect from us.”

Mr. Toad’s Pottery is slated to open this Fall and will be moving to LaVale. The new location will offer a large paint studio, a refreshment bar and event studios that can be rented for your next special event. This location will offer more accessibility with ample parking and plenty of space to host all of your parties and gatherings such as company events, field trips, birthday parties and bridal or baby showers. The new owner of Mr. Toad’s Pottery will continue to offer workshops and classes.

Follow Mr. Toad’s Pottery on Facebook to stay up to date on the latest and greatest from your favorite local paint your own studio. A grand opening announcement will be made public once it becomes available.