After a seven-year stint, HempWorks in downtown Bridgeport is closing its doors. Opened by Mary Frances Smith in 2018, the store has seen an evolution of growth since its early days at The Shoppes of Averil Place. Founded to offer quality CBD products, HempWorks has grown to carry many other items including jewelry, candles, gift baskets, totes, custom-engraved wood products, and much more.

Smith, who was formerly an administrator at Bridgeport High School, said owning and operating HempWorks has been a positive chapter in her life.

“The past seven years have been a great learning experience, and I’d like to thank the community for their support,” Smith said. “The entire experience was gratifying and at the same time, a huge learning curve coming from the education system.”

She thanks a great support system of local advisors, including Monica Gorrell of Homefinders Plus, Lotus MacDowell of ArtWorks, Mat Barnosky of TMobile, Lisa Lang of About You Monograms, and Pam Preston of WBOY.

The store will be open through the end of the month. In the meantime, merchandise – as well as several other items – are available at discounted prices.

“I have a lot of furniture/display pieces – racks, portable wine bar, bookcases, etc. that are also available for purchase,” Smith said.

Although the storefront is closing, Smith will continue to offer some products.

“I am moving my laser engraver home and will continue working with and carrying the charcuterie boards, Versa Totes and windchimes,” she said. “Those can be ordered through my Etsy shop – MiasMonogramMarket – or by simply texting/calling or contacting me through Facebook Messenger.”

HempWorks is located at 142 West Main Street, a space she has occupied since November of 2023. Before that time, the store was located on Casino Drive in Anmoore and East Main Street, where Smith moved the store after The Shoppes of Averil Place was destroyed by fire in 2019.

Smith explained the reason for the closing.

“It has just become overwhelming and has limited my family interaction and personal interests,” she said.

Through the end of February, HempWorks is open 10 a.m. through 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and 10 a.m. through 2 p.m. Saturdays.

Editor’s Note: Photos previously taken at HempWorks on West Main Street.