House of S&J wins downtown Corbin Christmas window decorating contest

A downtown jewelry and home décor store is the overall winner of the Corbin Main Street Program’s second annual Christmas window display contest.

Corbin Main Street Manager Sharae Myer’s announced the top three on Monday. The Christmas themed window displays by downtown merchants were judged by Main Street Managers from other parts of the state.

"I told them it would be hard, but I don’t think they realized how difficult it would really be to judge this," Myers said. "I think all the people that took part in it this year really got into it."

The House of S&J took top honors with Maggie J’s, a women’s clothing store, and Alley Stuff, a curiosity shop, winning second and third places respectively.

Shea Hensley, co-owner of The House of S&J, said his window theme was just inspired by the time-honored tradition of Christmas.

"We wanted something that just gives you a warm feeling," Hensley said. "We just wanted to show the true meaning of Christmas. I think everyone got a little competitive this year and that is good. It’s all about making the town more welcoming. It’s a wonderful contest."

The House of S&J’s window features a huge snowman, animals and even an elaborate crystalline tree that looks like it is made of icicles.

Hensley said many of the items used in the display were donated to the store by the Jackie Lambert and the Blair family and were formerly displayed at the Cumberland Inn.

"When you have all that great stuff to work with, it makes it a lot easier," Hensley said.

Winners received advertising packages from local radio stations and newspapers. Myers said there were 10 participants this year.