Laurel mercantile

Proof of what real people can do with a little creativity, a lot of commitment, and a deep well of love.

I grew up climbing dirt mounds and magnolia trees in the country, playing a game I called “post office” wherein I would climb to the top of the tree and scratch a message into the velvety backside of a magnolia leaf, then drop it for my mom or cousin or brother to find and read when it landed. The bathwater was brown at the end of the day, my hair in tangled knots, mosquito bites on my legs, smelling like the wind and dirt of the natural world. When Mae was born we realized how small our…

Before 2017, Laurel, Mississippi, was rarely, if ever, on the minds of people who didn’t live there.

Most Home Town viewers know Mallorie Rasberry as the creative DIY-er and Erin’s best friend. She is indeed both of those things in real life, but her roles and list of various titles doesn't end there. She’s a co-owner of Laurel Mercantile Co.; an AirBnb Superhost; a speaker to Main Street organizations across the U.S.

Introducing Erin and Ben’s newest completed project, The Scent Library! The Scent Library is the new home for the candles that the nation at large has come to know and love. When Erin first had the idea of creating candles from her own personal memories, she had no idea that there would one day be a whole 2,400 square foot building filled with her treasured memories.

Laurel was a happy accident and honestly it is the best thing that could have happened to me. The friends and community I have gained here are truly amazing. From the very beginning the Mercantile family has welcomed me with open arms and they have helped with every step in this new journey I am on. I honestly do not know where I would be if it was not for them.

See this Instagram photo by @erinapier • 396 likes

Laurel Plans A Street Party For Home Town Finale and you are invited. If you can't make it, plan a visit soon to this charming small town.

Although it is her dream kitchen now, this space has been through quite the journey since Erin and Ben bought it as their first home. Let's take a walk down memory lane with Erin, shall we?