When we moved to Mahomet 13 years ago, I quickly figured out that a quick drive down Interstate 57 would land me in the land of quality clothing at a discount: the Tanger Outlet Mall of Tuscola. At that time, my in laws also lived in Mahomet, and we frequented the Amishland Red Barn Buffet for all you can eat fried chicken.
It’s like deal after deal down there. But last Friday, my two daughters and I went back to Tuscola, not to fill my car with amazing 70% off deals from the Gap, but to see what we could find downtown.
Within the rustic buildings that take you back to the early 1900’s, we expected to find local candies, art, antiques and tattoos. But that’s just the surface. Because in each establishment we visited, we were greeted by warm faces, people filled with passion for their craft and community, and through conversation, we made friends.
Our day trip to Tuscola is not only my favorite day trip yet, but the stories these business owners told me are some of my favorite interviews to date. I’ve talked to hundreds of people through interviews. But I have never met a group of individuals who share a common vision like the men and women who own these downtown Tuscola stores.
Interviews are all about listening and learning; gathering the pieces to tell a complete and accurate story. And most interviewees are okay with that. But not only did these business owners invite me to come back to their functions, Devon, owner of Flesor’s candy store said, “This whole interview has been about me. I want you ladies to come back so that I can learn more about you.”
And I can tell that she meant it. It was evident on my way out that she’s really invested in the Tuscola residents and enjoys learning about visitors. Four teenagers sat at the bar where sodas and ice creams are served in the late afternoon. She correctly guessed that they were with an out-of-town church group, and spent the next 10 minutes asking them about their organization. The conversation carried on after I walked out the door.
Not only do I encourage you to read the stories about The Vault Art Collective, Flesor’s Candy Kitchen and Vintage Karma, but I hope you’ll take the time to venture past the Tanger Outlet Mall to discover the people of Tuscola….Oh yeah, and you won’t be bored. These establishments are great on their own!
Directions:
Take I-74 or I-72 east to I-57 south
Stay on I-57 south to exit 212
Turn left on Highway 36, turn right on Main Street
What to bring:
Money
Click each image to read the story behind the business
[one_half]
[/one_half]
[one_half_last]
[/one_half_last]
[one_half]
[/one_half]
[one_half_last]
[/one_half_last]
