Two Sisters...New Beginnings named
Small Business of the Week by Senator Rubio

Ashley Hunter
ECB Publishing, Inc.

A local business received recognition at the United States Senate on Wednesday, Jan. 22, when Senator Marco Rubio proclaimed that Two Sisters...New Beginnings would be the U.S. Senate Small Business of the Week.
Senator Rubio (R-Fla.), who is the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, released a video message on social media during the afternoon of January 22 in order to announce his selection for the week's small business.
“As Chairman of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, I am pleased to honor Two Sisters... New Beginnings, of Monticello, Fla., as the Senate Small Business of the Week,” said Senator Rubio, before touching on the history of the Monticello business.
Founded in 2013 by sisters Sandra Hood and Pat Marchman, Two Sisters...New Beginnings is a local antique, furniture and artisan shop that is nestled directly off the roundabout that circles the Jefferson County Courthouse.
“Two Sisters...New Beginnings sells antiques and repurposed furniture as well as provides local artists a place to sell their products,” continued Senator Rubio. “Two Sisters...New Beginnings has been a long supporter of the community, donating to many local charities and events such as the Teal Magnolias Ladies Golf Tournament which raises awareness about ovarian cancer.”
Senator Rubio commended the shop’s current owner, Sandra Hood, for her community involvement, placing her shop as a model for other businesses to follow.
“Two Sisters...New Beginnings is an unparalleled example of how a small business can strengthen and support a community through giving back and by creating dignified work,” continued Senator Rubio. “Congratulations, and I look forward to watching your continued growth and your continued success.”
With the belief that small businesses are the heartbeat of the United States' economy, Senator Rubio continues the tradition of honoring America’s small businesses and entrepreneurs.
The Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship oversees proposed legislation on matters relating to the Small Business Administration and investigates all problems relating to America’s small businesses.
Two Sisters...New Beginnings' Sandra Hood learned of the recognition during the morning of Thursday, Jan. 23.
“We are so excited and humbled to be chosen for this special recognition,” said Hood. “Thank you, everyone, for your support! I couldn't do it without everyone.”
Two Sisters...New Beginnings is located at 106 E. Washington St., just a few feet east of the Courthouse. Hood moved her business to that location in September in order to expand her shop, open more rooms for local artist booths and to provide a more varied selection of items for shoppers.