Trail Creek Merc offers something for everyone

SEELEY LAKE - After decades of working for others, Lynda and Kevin Mickelson decided it was time for a change. The newly retired couple opened Trail Creek Merc on June 28, a one-stop-shop for gifts, in the Bison and Bear Center.

"I think that our personal mission on this is to be doing something that we want to do and enjoy," said Kevin.

The Mickelsons grew up together in Missoula and in the summer they spent time in the valley with family. They both graduated from Loyola Sacred Heart in 1979.

Kevin worked in many fields. He managed supply warehouses that delivered food to grocery stores and restaurants. He spent time doing quality inspections for Jones Dairy Farm in Wisconsin and also Daily Meats in Missoula.

Before his retirement, he worked as an industry director for Montana Correctional Enterprises, a vocational labor training for incarcerated people. He also directed Idaho Correctional Industry, similar to the Montana system, but it operated as a stand-alone agency.

Lynda spent time as a teacher and then worked to get her law degree. She practiced in Washington and Montana. 

"But this is the first time we can finally work together," Lynda said.

They both talked about one day owning a store. They decided in January that Seeley was the place for them to live out their pseudo-retirement. Their new business collaboration is a classic Montana themed gift shop, with a few twists. 

One important step the couple took was using suppliers not previously used in the valley. They are planning to also have a feature vendor of the month where customers receive additional savings. The featured vendor for July is The Montana Chocolate Company from Stevensville, Montana. Products are 15% off in store.

They hope the unique styles will help them get customers in the door but also upgrade the quality of shopping in the area.

"We want to help build the retail community and make it more powerful so that people start making Seeley a little bit more of a shopping destination," said Kevin. "We believe people will be willing to drive and do a little bit of shopping and see some different opportunities." 

"I think we want a "wow" factor. We want something for everyone," added Lynda.

She explained there are a variety of items for sale including candles and bath bombs, as well as hunting knives and children's toys. The items will also be changed when they restock, making each visit to the store a new experience. 

Some of the special features of the shop are that they will make customizable gift baskets, either through an order online or in-store. They hope the baskets can be like giving flowers to someone on vacation or a housewarming present for new homeowners. 

They also dedicated a section of the store as the "curiosity shop." That is where they sell unique items that people don't usually see and are handpicked by the couple. 

They hope that customers can enjoy the shop and that the community will be uplifted by another small business.

"It isn't just about Seeley here, it is about the whole valley, and enhancing the valley," said Lynda.

Trail Creek Merc summer hours are 10 a.m. - 7 p.m. daily. The business can be reached by email TCM@TrailCreekMerc.com, online at http://www.TrailCreekMerc.com, on their Facebook page and by calling 406-677-2816.