Julie and Brian Thurston had a shirt-making home business, and were asked to come to rodeos to sell their wares.

This, along with living in a rural community and having a local college with a rodeo program, prompted their newest venture, Grit & Grace Mercantile at 323 E. Wall.

They thought that with the many local rural communities, and rodeos ( a big fashion/decor trend, she said) they would step out in this venture.  Julie previously had designed decor for weddings.

Their boutique sells Western clothing for men, women and children, along with decor and furniture.

“A little something for everyone,” Julie said.

Julie said her husband’s brother has a funnel cake truck and they are hoping to have him at the business site during the upcoming Christmas on the Bricks festival, Dec. 4-7.

The Rest of the Building

They closed on the purchase of the two-story building, circa 1911, on October 24. Thurston said she heard that at one time there was a candy factory in the building and, most recently, a rural real estate agent’s office.

Their storefront neighbor, Dr. Erin Crank, will continue her chiropractic business in the building.

Upstairs, they have been readying two living spaces for use as short-term vacation rentals.

There are two apartments: a two-bedroom, one-bathroom living space and a one-bedroom, one-bathroom living space.

She said they hope to have the rentals available by the holidays.

For more information:

Website: gritgracemercantile.com