ARLEE — As new businesses flourish throughout Western Montana, a new establishment in Arlee is finding a way to bring supportive services and hospitality to its customers.
Watch to learn more about Auntie's Emporium:
Auntie’s Emporium, a new market in Arlee, is opening its doors this holiday weekend, offering food, local goods and a year-round farmer’s market.
Owner Jamila James says the name itself tells the story of their mission to serve the Arlee community.
“In our culture, auntie’s are like another mom,” James said, “or another sister or somebody that a person can go to for help, encouragement or advice."
An auntie herself, James’s is inspired to create a center that offers the love of an aunt to more than family.
The new space will feel like you walked into your auntie’s home, offering more than just a bite to eat.
“If we’re going to be an emporium, we have to be magical in my eyes,” James said, “so having items that you can’t find anywhere else is important.”
The items can include imported goods, pieces from local artists and trending snacks.
While Auntie’s Emporium may seem like an ordinary business, owners James and partner Phadares Swabs are putting their profit right back into the community.
“It's funding what our true passion is and that is being a source for the community,” James said.
Swabs says having a safe space for people to come is their goal and with the annual Arlee Celebration, the hub is open to everyone 24/7.
“From the outside it looks like a business, and a lot of people think it is a restaurant,” Swabs said, “we’re structuring it in a way that feels good for the community.”
Their services will provide availability for addiction support groups after hours or open kitchen hours for local vendors to use.
Auntie’s Emporium wants the center of its operation to strengthen the community, including by hiring locals who may not meet the requirements for other jobs.
“We’re going back through the generations for healing to occur without judgment,” James said.
Auntie’s Emporium will be celebrating its opening with events throughout the weekend, in concurrence with the Arlee Celebration.
