The Mercantile by Miller: A Local Treasure in Birmingham
Birmingham is home to a delightful gem known as The Mercantile by Miller, located in Brook Highland Plaza. This vibrant market is a hub of creativity, showcasing an array of handcrafted and curated items from over 50 local vendors. Each vendor brings their unique style and vision, creating a shopping experience that feels both personal and inspiring.
Meet Kay Miller
At the heart of The Mercantile is Kay Miller, a passionate entrepreneur and designer whose journey is as colorful as the items displayed in her store. Originally from Flintstone, Georgia, just outside Chattanooga, Kay has always had her sights set on design. She recalls her early aspirations to become a fashion designer, though a few encounters, including a discouraging comment from a professor, led her to explore other avenues.
Despite the hurdles, Kay’s creativity blossomed as she moved from city to city, fueled by her knack for design and keen eye for detail. Working alongside her friend Sally Hood in Atlanta, Kay began helping their friends with home decor, marking the early days of her design work.
Bringing Merchants Together
After relocating multiple times due to her husband’s job, the Millers finally set down roots in Birmingham. It was during a routine trip to rent a U-Haul that Kay had her entrepreneurial epiphany. Struck by a fellow renter’s clever way of combining storage and sales, she envisioned a marketplace for local artisans. That day, what began as a simple errand would lead to the creation of The Mercantile.
The Mercantile has evolved significantly since Kay first opened it, originally called Trader Bob’s. Today, it features nine original vendors from that first market and has grown to include a diverse selection of goods. From decor and bath products to clothing and baby items, there is something for everyone.
Vendor Relationships
What sets The Mercantile apart is the close-knit community of vendors it fosters. Kay emphasizes the importance of choosing vendors who share her commitment to quality and uniqueness. She stated, “We are very picky about our vendors. We vet them all to ensure they offer high-quality items you won’t find anywhere else.” This careful selection process ensures a cohesive shopping experience, encouraging customers to explore the range of offerings.
Kay and her team are dedicated to the success of their vendors. They thoughtfully design store layouts and help with decor, creating a space that not only looks appealing but also inspires customers. “If you’re not happy, not having a good time, then what’s the point?” she said. This positive atmosphere extends to both shoppers and vendors, making The Mercantile a true family affair.
A Vision for the Future
The future looks bright for The Mercantile as Kay continues to improve and enhance the market. With her son taking on a more significant role in their construction business, Kay can focus her efforts on The Mercantile, ensuring it remains a vibrant destination in Birmingham. She collaborates with store designer Ricky Gonzalez to keep the market fresh and appealing to locals and visitors alike.
Community Connection
Outside her work at The Mercantile, Kay enjoys spending time with her family, indulging in old black-and-white movies, and soaking up the sun at her favorite vacation spot, Alys Beach, Florida. Her entrepreneurial spirit is matched only by her devotion to family, as evidenced by her decision to name her store’s signature candles after her grandchildren.
As the holiday season approaches, The Mercantile is gearing up for its annual transformation, promising an enchanting shopping experience for all. With its dedication to supporting local artisans and creating a welcoming environment, The Mercantile by Miller stands as a treasured part of Birmingham’s community.
Whether you’re seeking a unique gift or simply looking for inspiration, a visit to The Mercantile is sure to deliver. It’s a reminder that behind every product lies a story and a passionate maker, bringing warmth and creativity to our city.
