1232 Broad St. Mercantile — Local services in Saint Joseph

My husband and I couldn't wait for the Mercantile to open on Wednesday, July 3, 2024 . We had been in Michigan since Monday and noted it did not open until Wednesday. We are from Indianapolis and needed to get away.

You see, my dad who will be 100 on August 27th, became ill last week and is in rehab. Our original plan was to go to California or Florida, but with dad's illness and trying to rehab, we decided to stay close to home and come to St. Joseph since it is only 2.5 hours from our home.

Dad has dementia and has lived with us five years, so we rarely go anywhere because we don't have anyone to watch dad. Since dad is in a rehab center, we were able to get away to St. Joseph without seeking a sitter for dad to rest and re-set.

We stopped at the Mercantile store because we love antiques as well as unique items.

The salesperson/owner never spoke to us or welcomed us to the store, which is a common customer service courtesy.

We browsed through the store maybe 20 minutes, never a 'May I help you?'. We watched as she watched us make it to the 'Exit' door, no, 'Good-bye', did you find what you were looking for, nothing.

She continued talking to the two customers in the store who had already made their purchases when we entered the store as if she wanted them to stay in the store until we left. (We are middle aged (60 and 63), degreed professionals, dressed well so there was no need to be fearful of us.))

Sure enough, as soon as my husband and I exited the store, so did those two customers.

There were no good-byes or acknowledgements of my husband and I. As I took a picture of the building, I saw the owner saying goodbye to the other customers.

There were several items I would have purchased from the Mercantile, but because we were treated as invisible customers, we left empty handed.

UPDATE:

There were only two sets of customers in the store (the two ladies who came together and had ALREADY purchased when we came into the store, as the owner looked us in the eye and DID NOT speak). My husband and I were the other set of customers and pretty HARD TO MISS. No one else was in the store. We believe it was strategic that the other set of customers did not leave until "we" left. They then felt it safe to leave.

I am glad that you agreed to be more aware of this as more and more diverse customers visit St. Joseph and the Mercantile, it is even more important to be friendly, inclusive, and...

What a GEM! 1232 Broad St. Mercantile is the master mind of 2 women who have their own stores and combined into this one! The locals just call it "Mercantile".

My friend Denise, a newer Michigan resident introduced me to this gem of a store. It's a collection of vintage pieces and antique furniture with a bit of modern newness sprinkled throughout- there's kid clothes and toys that are bought from elsewhere and brought in.

The owners have an eye for beautiful things- there's something here for every room of your house and even outside your house too! Pricing is moderate. I found a gorgeous brass candle holder for $40 and also passed on some artwork that was $175.

They have 2 bathrooms while you're shopping that are spacious and clean. Parking is incredibly easy right out front on their property. The pulling out is a bit scary as this shop is on a bend in the road.

The gal working was in constant communication with the owners while we were asking questions about some of the pieces. It was nice that they were on top of their things!

I wish they had more of a vintage jewelry selection, but my friend and I both walked away with a few things...

Absolutely, one of the best if not THE BEST shoppe in St Joseph! A very interesting collection of old and new items. I especially enjoy the Joe Spencer Gathered Traditions Collection.... If they have a chance, have the ladies at the counter tell you the history of the building! A fascinating tale about Chicago Mafia, and bootlegging on the eastern shores of Lake Michigan, with secret rooms, as well! This was my first time hearing it, while I purchased a great little velvet pumpkin, and it was really interesting! A truly wonderful...