Sisters Kristie Ritchie and Michele Hipp stand at their newly crafted counter by Steve and Jenna Jett.
Sister’s Mercantile began in August 2020 as a small shop in Arnoldsburg, West Virginia selling antiques, clothing and new and used decor along Route 33/119 in a building owned by Judy Knotts. Even Judy had more faith in their future than they did, telling them that she believed they’d out grow her store in no time. And that’s exactly what they did.
The first order the ladies placed for merchandise was a mere $500.00, That is far less than their current inventory needs with 4-5 Facebook lives each week, 3 days of an open shop, and a website that boasts a following of greater than 40,000 people. This serves to create a daily mailing by employee Kristi Sampson of 100 orders or more. Their original style of sales catered to those who like country and farmhouse decor. But with the expansion their selection of merchandise covers a wide variety of tastes. A line of clothing is also available in the store with custom designed t-shirts by Marsha Benson. Also helping in sales is Marsha’s mother Renita Benson, who says she helps because she frequently needs the ”farmhouse therapy.”
Store hours are 11:00 a.m.-5 p.m. on Thursday and Friday, and Saturday hours from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
They are the first to “officially” open a business in the old Armory owned by Brian and Seana Evans. The building located on South Calhoun Highway, has received a complete facelift by local contractor Hardway Construction and Maintenance, LLC. Additional businesses will open soon: Millers Sudz & Sales which will be a Discount Merchandise Store and a newly constructed laundry mat.
