A favorite pastime for many of Montreat’s summer visitors involves making a visit to the rocking chairs at Moore Center. There, you will find many a “Montreater” donning a new Montreat T-shirt, sipping on a cool, crisp Cheerwine, or simply listening to the hum of the Lake Susan Dam as they rock. Tucked behind the lake and nestled beneath the trees at Moore Center, The Montreat Store is more than just a place to grab a sweatshirt or a sticker; it’s a cornerstone of Montreat magic.
I spent three days shadowing the Montreat Store staff this summer, which allowed me to get a behind-the-scenes look at how this small shop plays a big role in the Montreat experience. From Monday to Wednesday, I watched the rhythm of the store ebb and flow. One minute, it would be completely quiet. The next, a wave of conferees would pour in; youth race for a cold soda, friends carefully choose matching hoodies, and adults pick up gifts to take home. I was so impressed with how the team shifted effortlessly between these extremes, keeping the space organized, stocked, and inviting no matter how busy it got.
Taylor, the new store manager, is diving headfirst into her first summer in the role, and she is working hard to make sure the team is prepared for anything. The Montreat Store staff must constantly respond to the needs of the moment: managing inventory, rearranging displays, answering questions, and adjusting to sudden crowds. But their goal goes beyond retail: They aim to create a space of hospitality where every person who walks through the door feels that they are part of something bigger.
On the back porch, you’ll find a special gathering place where first-time visitors and returning guests alike try out rocking chairs and swap stories. It’s truly a space where generations connect. Inside, the store reflects the same spirit. New merchandise and designs, like a sticker created by staff member Jacob, mix with the timeless staples that bring people back year after year. From toddlers clutching stuffed animals to grandparents sharing stories about their time on Summer Staff years ago, each person’s unique Montreat memories are reflected here…