Open for Business: Payton's Place

ECD Services LLC opened for business Sept. 2 at 583 Barn Stable, Nixa. Certified home inspector Chris Duncan (pictured) started the company after working as an engineering consultant in Missouri and Arizona for the past 10 years. Duncan holds a mechanical engineering degree from the University of Missouri-Columbia. "It's something to get me outside, away from the desk," Duncan said of his new venture. He co-owns the business with his wife, Sonya. The service area comprises Springfield and surrounding communities, including Branson. Hours of operation are 9 a.m.-6 p.m.

Allison Smith opened A Bag Habit Sept. 6 at 870 E. U.S. Highway 60 in Republic. The retail gift shop sells jewelry, handbags, bath products and a variety of gifts. Smith also special orders handbags. Smith invested about $3,000 in the 900-square-foot store. A Bag Habit is open 10:30 a.m.-6:30 p.m. Monday through Friday and 10:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday.

Leah's Photography opened Sept. 16 at 137 N. Main St., Republic. Owner and photographer Leah Pinnon offers specialty photography, children's photography, senior pictures and team sport photos. Pinnon also sells picture frames and gifts, and has props for taking pictures in the 1,500-square-foot studio. Leah's Photography is open 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and by appointment.

Professional Accounting & Tax Service opened an Ozark office Sept. 1 at 5349 N. 22nd St., Ste. 5, in the Fremont Family Dental building at highways 65 and CC. Services include bookkeeping, accounting, payroll and tax returns for personal, business and nonprofits. Owner Beverly Evans also operates an office in Nixa at 102 S. Main. Professional Accounting & Tax Service is open 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday through Friday, with extended hours during tax season.