Waterfront Framing and Fashion owner Valerie Byrnes has filled in the details on the future of her growing downtown St. Joseph shop, as she prepares to return to the Chamber of Commerce world, heading the chamber in Independence, Missouri, as we told you about earlier this month.
Byrnes has now revealed the new owner at Waterfront Framing and Fashion will be Corey Carolla, well-known in the local business community.
Valerie Byrnes commented:
“I’m incredibly grateful for the relationships, creativity, and community support that Waterfront has brought into my life, Passing the torch to Corey feels like the perfect fit. His energy, business acumen, and shared values give me complete confidence that Waterfront’s best days are still ahead.”
Carolla confirmed that he’s becoming a downtown St. Joseph business owner, building on the foundation laid by Byrnes and her daughter, Emily.
“Yes, I am purchasing the store from Val, and we are transitioning over the next month. I’m incredibly excited about the future of Waterfront. I won’t be doing it alone—Emily Byrnes, Val’s daughter, and I are teaming up to lead the next chapter. Together, we’re committed to preserving the integrity of what Val and Emily built, while shaping a vision for growth that respects the legacy and welcomes fresh opportunity.”
“For the past six years, Valerie and Emily have been the heart and soul behind Waterfront. Their eye for style, commitment to community, and personalized approach to customer service turned the shop into more than a business — it became a local treasure.”
Carolla shared more of his vision for the store in the future:
“Emily and I are honored to carry the Waterfront legacy forward. Framing will remain the heart of the business, and we’re excited to continue offering the fashion, art, and design decor the community has come to love and trust. We also look forward to introducing some new elements that reflect who we are and what this community is becoming as we expand and shape our brand. We’re passionate about keeping Waterfront a space that celebrates creativity, style, and local connection.”
Carolla said high-end fashion will remain a priority of Emily Byrnes, ensuring the same positive energy and love is poured into every shopper. The dynamic collaborative nature of combining art, fashion and framing with be elevated to new heights under the new energetic teamwork, according to Carolla.
Waterfront House of Framing & Fashion will continue to operate at its current location at 209 State Street in downtown St. Joseph.
A community open house and celebration of Valerie Byrnes’ contributions and the new leadership change will be held on Saturday, June 28 from 1:19 p.m. – 3:16 p.m.
Corey Carolla & Emily Byrnes at Waterfront Framing & Fashion
Valerie Byrnes, selling Waterfront Framing & Fashion
