Business Highlight

White Street Market

White Street Market Business Highlight

White Street Market is the opener to all there is to offer in Downtown Athens. White Street Market is more than just a store—it’s a carefully curated space that brings together a diverse selection of goods from not only national name brands, but local artists as well. Not a traditional gift shop, this market offers clothing, jewelry, gifts, books, trinkets, food and other specialty items, ensuring there’s a little something for everyone who walks through its doors. As the first-place visitors see when entering downtown, the store has become a landmark of local charm and commerce.

Adapting Through Challenges

Opening right as the COVID-19 pandemic hit presented unforeseen hurdles, but the market quickly adapted. The owner found creative ways to engage customers, such as offering Easter baskets that she would leave on the outside of customers’ home dressed as the easter bunny. She remembers seeing the smiles on the children’s faces through the window and she was just filled with joy. Being able to come together as a community, while still following the Covid guidelines was a great chance to bring people together during this hard time. Despite the dominance of retail giants like Amazon, the store remained competitive by prioritizing personalized service and a welcoming in-person experience.

A Vision Rooted in Community

Founded in November 2019, the market is the product of years of retail experience and a deep passion for revitalizing downtown. Lisa Mayfield, who grew up with a love for retail and modeling, had always dreamed of running a store but put those aspirations on hold for marriage and family life. With a strong belief in community and an urge to be a part of the revitalization of the downtown, Lisa  saw an opportunity to contribute to the local economy and bring a fresh shopping experience to the area. When the opportunity for a mural to be painted on the side of her building she was more than willing to be a part of the bustling art scene in Athens. The mural is a nod to the women’s suffrage movement and that nationally gave women the right to vote.

A Look Toward the Future

With a mission to keep downtown vibrant, the market continues to evolve. Plans are in place to extend business hours for special events, and there’s excitement surrounding The Food Hub’s opening which will offer great chances for cross collaboration. By staying true to its roots while embracing new opportunities, this downtown market remains a staple for sho

Local Artist

Local artists : Tom Hamilton , Maria Melton, Marian Pyron , Scottie Mayfield, D D Dugan, Dorothy Teague , Jessica Klaaren , Jennifer Cox Pinker , Ronnie Givens

Hand Bags

Handbags : Volta Atelier, Able, Soruka , Uashama,Lilley Line 

Handmade beaded bags from Maasai Village, Tanzania , Africa 

Food

Food: Momofuko, Poppy Popcorn, Mayfield Farm, Pinterest Vecchio, Alchemy Spice, Rustic Bakery

Home Decor

Home Accessories: Be Home , Nora Fleming , Montes Doggett , Laura Zindel, local woodworkers .