Are you tired of seeing hometown businesses shut down for the convenience of online shopping and the big box stores? Are you sick of seeing Americans out of work, while our jobs go to India and Mexico? Perhaps you’re just worn weary of products that are harsh on the environment, full of dyes and chemicals and who-knows-what else. If this sounds like you, we’ve got great news. Mum & Me Mercantile just opened on Parkway Drive, right across from The Pants Store in historic downtown Leeds.

At age 63, just about the time most people prepare to retire, local resident Neva Reardon took out a loan and invested in some commercial real estate. Inside, she and her two daughters, Marin and Erin, opened a brand new shop offering a wide range of handmade merchandise by local American artists and craftsmen.

From ladies’ apparel to housewares, jewelry to baby items, Alabama and Auburn merchandise to handmade soaps, lotions, and body wash, these gals have it all. Many of the items offered at Mum & Me directly benefit local charities. Some candles are made by the homeless and the proceeds directly benefit these special people. Whether you’re trying to lend a helping hand to those in need or believe it’s important that our bath and beauty products aren’t tested on helpless animals, you can find just what you’re looking for and support those great causes, all right in downtown Leeds. Almost all of their products are proudly ‘Made in the USA’.

In the back of the shop, the ladies also operate a small florist where you can get amazing fresh arrangements for your special occasions. Sorry, they don’t handle large events like weddings, but they’ll certainly make your bridal showers, business meetings, and group luncheons feel truly special with their custom fresh flower arrangements.

Mum & Me Mercantile just celebrated their soft opening on August 1, and is preparing for their Grand Opening on September 14. The entire day will be filled with free giveaways and other special events. Come see what these ladies have put together for the shoppers here in Leeds.

Are you an artist? Perhaps you sew or paint or make pottery. Neva and the girls are also looking for local artists to partner with. They’re especially interested in those artists who are working for a cause, whether it is artwork to support a mission or crafts that are kind to animals, humans or the environment.

Come visit Mum & Me Mercantile and see how this unique Leeds business is changing the world, one soap, one handmade towel, and one handcrafted item of jewelry at a time.

For more information about Mum & Me Mercantile, please visit their website at www.MumAndMeMercantile.com or call (205) 702-6677.