2019 Small Business of the Year

Mert's Gift Gallery and Southernglory Boutique brings the charm

Merilyn Mert of Mert's gift galleryMert’s Gift Gallery is a specialty boutique gift store that offers a wide variety of items. Day stocks everything from farmhouse home decor and handmade jewelry to Carson wind chimes and Candleberry candles, and the selection includes much more. Day also makes silk flower arrangements and sells bereavement items. Merilyn “Mert” Day is the owner of Mert’s Gift Gallery& Southern Glory Boutique. She started this business in 2002.

What led you to start this business?
Merilyn “Mert” Day opened her first shop, Mert’s Doll House, in 2002 after over 20 years at American Greetings. “My husband’s secretary said, ‘You just need to open you up a shop,’” Day says. She’s been in her current location since 2005, selling gifts, home decor and more.

What is the best part of your job?
Day enjoys putting God first in her business endeavors. “I’ve had customers tell me that it’s a relaxing place,” she says. “This lady came in and says, ‘You can just feel the spirit of the Lord here,’ and that means everything to me because I put Him first.”

Why is it important to shop local?
Day believes making the effort to shop locally can result in a singular retail experience. “We try hard to be unique and sell things you can’t get at other places,” she says. “We also offer an experience that you can’t get in bigger stores.”

Location: 1206 Scottsville Road, Lafayette
Phone number: (615) 688-6378
Website: Check them out on Facebook and Instagram.

May 5 through 11, 2019, is National Small Business Week.

America’s 28 million small businesses account for about half of all jobs in the private sector. NCTC is proud to celebrate their contributions by spotlighting our Small Business of the Year. Congratulations to Mert’s Gift Gallery & Southern Glory Boutique and to all the small businesses we are honored to serve!