Today we’d like to introduce you to Monica Mercer.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
My journey in retail started as a furniture artist where I loved bringing an old piece of furniture back to life and saving it from going to the dump. From there I became a retailer for two paint lines through renting booth space. I would sell paint and the furniture I was refurbishing. I soon realized I also loved decorating the spaces I rented and teaching workshops to help inspire others to be creative and learn how to use the products. In 2019 I was given the opportunity to open my own brick and mortar in the Macedonia area of Canton and in November 2021 was able to relocate to my current location inside The Mill on Etowah.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Until you open your own brick and mortar there’s really no way to adequately prepare for all that entails. It has been such a rewarding journey but not an easy one. My husband and I are the owners but he has his own business so is not able to help me run the day-to-day operations. He does do all the heavy lifting though! I love creating but having my own store leaves me less time to create as I have to manage all the fine details, such as website development, social media, inventory management and all the things that go along with having your own business. I’ve learned so much and am grateful I get to do what I’m passionate about every day!
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
One of the things we offer at our store are Paint Parties and Workshops! I have only been doing canvas art for about three years and have so enjoyed learning to paint on canvas using different mediums. I truly love teaching others and watching them create something they didn’t think they were capable of creating. I love creating community through our store and workshops and inspiring others to be creative. I believe art can bring healing and peace. I always tell our attendees my only rule is “leave your stress at the door!” I am thankful for those that entrust their time with me. I am proud to watch the community grow and new friendships come together as we paint, laugh and create together!
Are there any apps, books, podcasts, blogs or other resources you think our readers should check out?
I love learning and growing in my business and art. Learning should be a lifelong journey. I am a part of several online paint groups that help me become a better artist and businesswoman. I am also a member of a group called Master Shopkeeper from The Savvy Shopkeeper with Kathy Cruz. She has been instrumental in helping me grow as a brick-and-mortar owner. She also has a podcast I love to listen to every week. Another book that has been instrumental to me is “Profit First” from Michael Michalowicz. His book helped change my mindset that I should pay myself first. It was contrary to everything I was currently doing.
Pricing:
- Paint Parties range from $40 – $60
- Workshops range from $30 – $85
- Home Decor & Gifts range from $10 and up
- Chalk/Clay Based Paint Lines from $14 – $39
- Art from Local Artist from $25 – $500
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.mmmercantileco.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mmmercantileco
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mmmercantileco
