Draper Mercantile: A Dream Come True

In my travels I come across people who really amaze me.  That recently happened when I stopped in at the Draper Mercantile in Draper, Virginia. This quaint country store is located in Pulaski County Virginia. You may remember back in 2011, it was in the media spotlight when a series of tornadoes hit here destroying many homes and businesses.  But this historic little gem was spared, and the woman --who had a dream and a vision to rebuild this historic place and bring people here from near and far-- has brought it back to life.



The woman behind it all is Debbie Gardner and I liked her the minute I met her.  This is a woman who isn't afraid to dream big. And she gets things done. She bought this mercantile back in 2008 when it was literally falling apart.  Debbie also owns and runs a property management company called New River Retreat.  These beautiful rental homes are bringing people here to vacation.  Problem prior to the mercantile renovation was, once they got here, there wasn't much to do.   Her vision was to create a place where people would come and gather, eat and socialize.  And she's accomplished that and so much more. 


Inside the store you'll find home-made products.  Along with this delicious sourdough bread (that is definitely worth trying)  you'll find local meats, cheeses, wines and so much more.



 In addition to the store, there is a great cafe called the "Blue Door Cafe" that offers up delicious cuisine.  I tried the special that day which was a smoke salmon wrap. It had sauteed asparagus, romaine lettuce with  a bacon vinaigrette.  Delish!

Oh,  I can't fail to mention that Friday is Pie Day - Pie Day!! I think every day should be pie day don't you? But these desserts are made from scratch - everything from pitting the cherries for a cherry pie.  I didn't know that was done anymore. 





Debbie also added  "The Junction," a bike rental and repair shop where you can rent a bike and hit the two trails the run right behind the mercantile.  Cool place, cool vibe. 




I really recommend coming here and checking it out for yourself.  What a gem in this small community - that started with one woman's vision and dream.

Click below to see my conversation with Debbie. 

 


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