Today we’d like to introduce you to Monica Anderson
Monica, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
Birch Tree Bookstore was born out of both love and loss. It is made entirely possibly by and in honor of my late father, Burchell “Burch” Smith, who always supported my dreams, goals and most of all happiness. His passing shattered my heart in a way I couldn’t fathom piecing back together. Birch Tree Bookstore became both a lifeline through my grief and a conduit for one of the most important aspects of my healing—connection
The goal of Birch Tree Bookstore is to provide a safe, welcoming, and inclusive community space where we can tell our stories, and learn from the stories of others. Our focus on connection is not evident in just our diverse selection of books, but also evident in our community events and support of local artists. Late last year, a painting studio was added to the store to allow an additional outlet for creatives to spread their voice. All stories matter and all voices deserve to be heard.
Today, I find solace in the connections fostered within Birch Tree Bookstore and its surrounding community. I look forward to the new adventures and stories we’ll share together in the future.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It is funny how life creates harmony and peace in decisions that are truly meant to be. Although opening a brand new business can be arduous, and mine did not start without a few hiccups… I am so thankful that I am assured by the feeling that I am doing exactly what I need to be doing, exactly when I need to be doing it.
I can look back and see how every experience, lesson or challenge provided me the skills to create something meaningful and special at Birch Tree Bookstore. I have held careers in psychology, teaching, business operations, and management which all help in some facet of running my business. I can now see the restlessness I previously felt in my career as motivation to explore new opportunities which all lead me to where I am today, and with the skills I would need to be successful.
Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Birch Tree Bookstore?
As I approach the stores one year anniversary, I can say that my goals and expectations have changed quite a lot over the past year. However, what has remained the same are the four pillars of the business: love, acceptance, community and future. All decisions related to the business are evaluated through these four lenses first. The store was born out of love, focuses on inclusive storytelling and hopes to leave a literary legacy in our community.
I will only remain motivated and successful as long as this business aligns with both my core values and family needs. In order to pore myself into this store I must also leave room for self care, love and family. I am honored to be a part of the independent bookstore community of Atlanta and surrounding areas. We all provide something unique in meeting our customers needs and desires. The best advice I received when opening the store was that “there is room for everyone”. I hope that what I provide to my customers is a listening ear, relaxing environment to explore new ideas and safety for readers across political parties, skin color, gender, age, ability or reading preferences.
What are your plans for the future?
This year I look forward to bolstering other small businesses, showcasing local artists and authors, and becoming a valuable and indispensable fixture of our community.
Contact Info:
- Email: bookstorebirchtree@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bookstore.birchtree/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bookstorebirchtree
