Sometime next month, Sarae Janes and Rick Lewis will open Wendell House on the ground level of the newly constructed mixed-use building at Old Trail Village Center. The couple, who moved to Greenwood from Nashville two years ago, were seeking a smaller, more cohesive community. That was the first big change for Janes and Lewis, who were working remotely, Janes as a nonprofit communications director and Lewis as a literary agent. The second change was to start a new business focusing on the products of local growers and artisans.
Janes said 30 or 40% of the store will be filled with groceries, including the staple items everyone needs. They’ve already contracted with a company that aggregates local produce and baked goods, have lined up some gifted artists, and hope to add more creations from the area artistic community.
They became very familiar with the Old Trail neighborhood while Ann Janes (Sarae’s mother) lived at The Lodge at Old Trail. Ann died very recently, but Sarae said she is still inspired by the beauty and peace her mother was able to create in her childhood home, despite limited financial resources.
The inspiration for the name Wendell House for the new business also has a hint of nostalgia. The couple’s first home on Wendell Street in Nashville was such a happy place that they wanted to recreate that sense of joy and contentment.
After spending time in the neighborhood, Janes noticed how many dogs are out walking with their owners so, besides the groceries, plants and gifts, Wendell House will offer some pet supplies.
Once up and running, Wendell House will serve the same purpose as the move to Greenwood, Janes said. “We hope to create a deeper sense of connection to the community.”
Another space on the ground floor has been leased to Club Pilates, according to Cushman & Wakefield, Thalhimer, the leasing agent. The studio has leased 2,337 square feet of space. Paula English, speaking for the agency, said there are spaces still available, ranging from 974 to 2,857 square feet. This includes the still-vacant space for a restaurant with a patio, as well as ample and accessible parking. Jenny Stoner of Thalhimers is the leasing agent.
Keep track of the progress and opening date for Wendell House. There’s a blog, a Facebook page, and other social media links at wendellhouse.com.
