With a little extra space after a recent expansion, I-Diehl Novelties, 318 E. College Ave., will now have room for some changes, such as offering piercing and even having an open mic night, owner Ted Diehl said.

A Lover's Day Unplugged event on Feb. 14 will showcase the new additions, featuring performances by local bands and demonstrations of glass blowing.

The store opened the expansion on Jan. 13 after renting out the space directly behind its original home. The spot formerly held ACM Music Underground, which closed at the beginning of the year, Diehl said.

After they learned about the available space, Ted Diehl and his father Bill Diehl, the store's manager, decided it was a good time to expand. Ted Diehl said the addition will allow them to increase the store's inventory. In addition, the store will soon feature body piercing and an adult section.

The Diehls expressed their excitement about adding an open mic area in the addition. Both father and son are longtime guitar players and said they are happy to provide a place for local musicians.

"I wanted to start the open mic so I can hear all the great talent around here," Ted Diehl said.

I-Diehl will always have the stage available for people to jam, but the owner said he hopes to tentatively set aside Wednesday and Saturday nights for performances.

"Our heart is to have a place available for local bands to just feel like they have a place in town to showcase," Bill Diehl said.

With the new changes, Ted Diehl said the store will remain faithful to supporting all the local artists who contribute items to the store. From clothing makers to glass blowers to hemp artists, I-Diehl showcases a variety of homemade items including tobacco pipes, candles and jewelry. It is this variety of assistance, the owner said, which allows the store to keep expanding and remain diverse.

"This store isn't about just one person's ideas and inventory," the owner said. "So many people are able to help us grow the way we are."

His father said the store also gains strength from the amount of backing it receives from the local clientele, who enjoy the comfortable atmosphere of the store.

"I feel we have the support of students and locals," Bill Diehl said. "Guys love us. They come in and get a friendly face and a smile."