One day, several years ago, I walked into a small store in Marshall, Virginia, and I immediately knew that one day I wanted to have a store similar to it of my own. I wanted it to be warm, welcoming and a place where the customers were more than just customers - they were friends, people who I would come to recognize and know their names when they entered the store. The ones who would share tidbits about their family and their life with me while browsing and shopping. The ones who would come in with a big smile and make my day brighter just because they carry love in their hearts. The ones who might come in feeling down, lonely or depressed but would leave happier than when they entered. I dreamed about antiques, vintage finds, farmhouse decor, the smell of warm candles and the glitter of Christmas ornaments - and so much more! As I listened to the Shopkeeper as she talked with her friends (her customers), I admired how kind she was, how she seemed more interested in helping than selling, and how pleasant she was. She looked happy, and I longed to be happy like her. So, I got lost in my dream, sipped my coffee from the Red Truck Bakery (it's amazing, by the way, and I highly recommend you go there if you ever get to Marshall), and never thought it would really happen. But, guess what? It is happening!!
Dothan Mercantile will open in September 2022 and I'm the owner! Officially I'm the "Shopkeeper" and I couldn't be happier. I'll be honest, I'm also exhausted as I am preparing this store for opening. However, mostly, I'm looking forward to the day I open the front door for the first time and welcome in my customers -- who quickly become my friends. I hope you'll come see me, browse, shop and say hello. I hope that the things that we have in the store will spark joy in your life.
When I made the decision to move forward with opening this store, I prayed that God would guide me, and bless this store and all of the people who come here, and let it be a success if it was His plan. The verse that keeps coming back is hanging on a card next to my desk in the store is Proverbs 16:3 and it says: Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and your plans will succeed.
I have committed this store, and my efforts, to the Lord and can't wait for you to come see it. See you soon!
