(Warrensburg, MO) Bar-B Mercantile is the latest business venture for Lisa S. Dean, long-time Johnson County entrepreneur and champion for gift and décor items that are handmade and homegrown in the heartland. For years, Dean has been specializing in giving items with an old story a new chapter by repurposing the items or giving them new life, and honoring their stories. Recently, Bar-B Mercantile applied for and received a $10,000 JCEDC microloan to help with renovations to the business’ new home, set to open in early September, located at 427 NE Hwy 13 in Warrensburg.
Bar-B Mercantile will continue offering merchandise from local artisans and craftsmen in the area as well as baked goods from Dean’s own family recipes that have been handed down through generations. The outdoor vendor market will be open every day, weather permitting. Paint and craft classes will be offered and announced on the Bar-B Mercantile Facebook page. In addition to the renovations at the new location, a separate space will be designated for gatherings to be rented by the hour for meetings, showers, and other small gatherings.
“I’m excited to connect amazing local artisans with customers. This new location offers a place to offer customers a unique shopping experience and showcase amazing makers year-round. I’d like to extend a huge thank you to JCEDC and the Microloan Committee for this opportunity to grow and expand,” Dean stated.
If interested in being a vendor or for other questions, you can reach Bar-B Mercantile at chapterandstory@gmail.com or by calling (660) 429-1557.
The JCEDC Microloan program offers loans up to $10,000 and allows small business owners to finance start up or established businesses, including both home-based and store-front. As borrowers repay their loans, these “revolving funds” are used to make more loans to other businesses to create more jobs and investment opportunities. To date, JCEDC has loaned over $142,500 to Johnson County business owners. More information about the JCEDC Microloan program can be found at: www.growjocomo.com or by calling 660-747-0244.