A grocery store in Lebanon, Tennessee, is capturing the essence of childhood nostalgia by blending vintage charm with locally sourced foods. Demeter’s Common, owned by local entrepreneur Mallory Jennings, features an array of products that transport customers back to the 1980s and 1990s, complete with VHS tapes and classic cartoons. The store aims to create a sense of community while supporting local agriculture.
Jennings has designed the store to appeal to adult customers looking to relive their childhood experiences. From the moment they step inside, visitors are greeted by the nostalgic sounds of familiar television shows playing on multiple screens. Jennings noted, “There’s something to be said for like an adult who can walk in somewhere like this and just feel a sense of peace because you feel like you were a kid again.”
Local Flair Meets Vintage Vibes
At Demeter’s Common, customers can explore a variety of local products, including candles, soaps, and fruit teas. While the store does not offer cereal from the 1997 era, it does provide breakfast and lunch options made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients. This combination of modern flavors and retro aesthetics creates a unique shopping experience that resonates with many.
Jennings emphasized the importance of fostering connections in an increasingly fast-paced world. “You should be able to go to your local grocer and be like, can you find me local beeswax or do you know where I can find x, y, and z?” she said. Her goal is to be that reliable source for the community, ensuring that customers can find what they need while also enjoying the warm atmosphere of the store.
In addition to food products, Jennings has incorporated activities such as puzzles and vintage games, encouraging patrons to slow down and engage with one another. “We might put on Pee-wee’s Playhouse, just whatever makes people happy,” she remarked. The store’s focus on community interaction creates an inviting space for all ages.
A Commitment to Community and Agriculture
For Jennings, Demeter’s Common represents more than just a grocery store; it embodies her commitment to supporting local agriculture and businesses. Growing up in Lebanon, she has witnessed the changes in the retail landscape and felt compelled to create a space that honors the past while looking forward to the future.
As genuine connections seem to diminish in today’s society, Jennings remains dedicated to ensuring that people remember their roots. She aims to remind customers of the simple pleasures of life, making her store a haven for those yearning for a taste of nostalgia.
By blending modern agricultural practices with a vintage aesthetic, Demeter’s Common stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of community-focused businesses. As customers continue to seek comfort in familiar experiences, the store offers a refreshing reminder of the joys of childhood, all while supporting the local economy.
