How we became the owners of the Lone Elm Store

Ryan, Kristin and their three children live just a few miles from the Lone Elm Store. On a daily basis, they would drive by the little building, and their minds would fill with ideas. Ryan would reminisce about stopping by the store for an after school snack back in the 90s. Kristin would channel her inner Joanna Gaines, imagining how cute the old store could become with just a “little” work.

Finally, fate stepped in when the store went up for sale, and Ryan and Kristin saw the opportunity to turn their wistful daydreams into a reality.

The previous owners were gracious and caring about making sure the store ended up in the right hands. And in 2023, it was official.

Plans for the Lone Elm Store

Both Ryan and Kristin work full-time in Columbia, dedicating their free time to restoring the Lone Elm Store. Their mission is simple: to provide a convenient resource for locals, offering essential staples that save a trip to town or serve as a welcoming stop for commuters heading to the lake.

Though progress may appear gradual, we assure you that there's always something in the works. Our ultimate goal is to have the store fully operational with regular hours. In the meantime, we’re proud to offer a diverse selection of packaged goods, groceries, beloved vintage and modern candy, household essentials, a variety of beverages, and a fun assortment of games, toys, and vintage baseball cards.

The support, excitement, and love from the community have been overwhelming, and we're thrilled to be part of such a wonderful place.