WHITEHALL, Mont. – Owning a business in Montana’s rapidly growing cities like Bozeman comes with challenges, particularly the rising costs to rent or buy space. Amidst this, Monique Morris found a unique opportunity by setting up M&M Vintage in Whitehall.
Morris, who has managed vintage shops in various states, moved to Whitehall after working in Bozeman. She purchased a building for her shop, allowing her to keep prices lower compared to Bozeman rents. This move has also eliminated concerns of rising rental costs.
Monique loves the small-town vibe and the sense of community in Whitehall. She emphasized that her store fills a gap, providing a place to buy clothing in Whitehall. She also noted that the location attracts travelers and tourists passing through nearby towns like Bozeman, Butte, and Helena.
Monique has built connections with other small businesses in towns such as Sheridan, Virginia City, and Twin Bridges. “All of us out here kind of have a cool little referral to each of the little towns. And. Oh, you got to go check out the candy shop. You got to go check out this vintage shop. And I’m really into promoting mom and pop businesses and just bringing more of that, piggybacking off each other out here, because that’s what we need,” she said.
Social media plays a role in attracting students from universities across the state. Monique believes that as a destination store, she drives business to other local establishments like restaurants and cafes.
She recently received the Business of the Year award from the Jefferson County Local Development Corporation for promoting local businesses and mom-and-pop stores.
Consider visiting M&M Vintage on Main Street while exploring the City of Whitehall.
