New Independent Bookstore in St. Augustine Sets Opening Date
ST. AUGUSTINE, Florida (June 8, 2025) – St. Augustine will soon be home to a brand-new independent bookstore, Midnight Moon Books and Boutique. In an increasingly digital world, print books have been experiencing a resurgence. After dipping their toes into the book market with their overwhelmingly popular Gypsy Moon Book Nook on the busy tourist corridor of St. George Street, owners Alison Bender and Melissa Hunt are diving headfirst into the literary world. Midnight Moon Books and Boutique will celebrate its Grand Opening on July 12th, from 11am until 7pm, at 111 King Street in Historic Downtown St. Augustine, with giveaways, special discounts, local authors on-hand signing their books, a DIY floral bar, and permanent jewelry booth.
“Melissa and I are both huge readers and book collectors,” says co-owner Alison Bender. “So we took this tiny corner in our existing store, Gypsy Moon, and transformed it into a dreamy book nook. The response was absolutely insane, and it gave us this wonderful look into the local book community. They didn’t just want books – they wanted a space to call their own, with book clubs, intimate author events, and comfy furniture. Before we knew it, Midnight Moon was born!”
Bender and Hunt found the perfect home at 111 King Street. Located at the intersection of history and academia, the building formerly housed Hamblen Hardware, a local staple since 1962. After sitting vacant for quite some time, the pair has completely renovated the space. With a shared background in merchandising, the store design has been a very personal and hands-on experience. Bender’s husband is doing the bulk of the store build-out, taking inspiration from Bender and Hunt’s cozy and romantic vision boards.
“We took a thoughtful approach to designing the complete concept,” explains co-owner Melissa Hunt. “We wanted to go beyond the physical books and consider the lifestyle of our customer. Reading time is often very personal – what items will make it feel intentional and indulgent? How can we set the mood to melt away the outside world and immerse ourselves in the story?”
Midnight Moon Books and Boutique carries that vibe throughout, with a carefully curated collection of volumes from the fantasy, romance, and thriller realms. The boutique offers everything a reader could want, including comfy loungewear, hand-poured candles, fragrant teas, plush blankets, and handmade throws. Guests can enjoy packaged wine and locally-sourced treats. As a women-owned small business, Bender and Hunt are paying it forward, focusing on female authors and vendors. Midnight Moon will also offer author signings, reading events, and space for book clubs, with more features to come.
ABOUT MIDNIGHT MOON BOOKS AND BOUTIQUE: Midnight Moon Books and Boutique is an independent lifestyle bookstore, offering a thoughtfully curated selection of books, stylish clothing, unique gifts, and more. Located at 111 King Street in downtown St. Augustine, the store will be open Tuesday through Sunday from 11am to 7pm. Photos to accompany the press release can be found here. Learn more at midnightmoonbooks.com. Follow along on social media @midnightmoonbooksfl
