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TRYON—A local business in downtown Tryon has a new name and new owners.

Lisa Johnson has taken the reins as the new owner of the Nest at Missildine’s, formerly known as the Nest Artisan Market. Johnson’s journey to ownership began three years ago when she started working for Ashley Menetre, the former owner and her close friend.

Johnson, who started by working one day a week, ultimately took on additional responsibilities, including vendor relations and sales analysis. As she became more involved, the conversation shifted to the shop’s future. 

“Back in March, I jokingly suggested that she sell me the shop so she could focus more on the Fitzgerald,” Johnson shared. “She initially laughed it off, but the next day, she called back and said, ‘You’re the only person I’d sell it to because I know you’ll take care of it. It’s my baby.’”

Johnson celebrated her first official day as owner on Tuesday, July 1, marking a new era for the Nest. 

Originally, the business focused on promoting locally created art and crafts, appealing to the town’s burgeoning creative community. While supporting local artists has always been at the heart of the business, Johnson recognized the need for evolution. She plans to spotlight a different artist each month, fostering a connection between the community and local creators.

“In a small town, people may only visit once or twice a year for art,” she explains. 

The location has now begun to add consignment clothing and, more recently, gourmet food items.

“Last year, I suggested we lean into the historic significance of this building, which is on the National Historic Register,” she said. “By marketing it as the Nest at Missildine’s, we hope to attract more tourists and locals alike.” 

Johnson’s son, Taylor Johnson, who has a background as a chef and butcher, is helping her curate the Nest’s growing selection of food products. Their goal now is to offer a range of gourmet, locally sourced foods, highlighting Southern culinary traditions such as rice, grits, specialty popcorn, spices and more. They serve a mix of take-home staples, including fresh meat and brands such as Ashe County cheese, Wehrloom drinks, and a variety of original items for snacking or meal time. 

The shop’s inventory includes organic and fair-trade items, primarily sourced from North Carolina and South Carolina, with aspirations to support local farmers in the wake of recent hardships caused by hurricanes and flooding. Several of their products donate a portion of sales to Hurricane Helene relief funds.

“We want to give our community a reason to shop locally and help our neighbors as we do it,” Johnson emphasizes.

With a dual focus on food and artisan crafts, Johnson anticipates increased foot traffic as the offerings complement each other. 

“The more people come in for grab-and-go items, the more likely they are to wander and discover our artists,” she notes.

With a clear vision and a deeply rooted commitment to community, Johnson is poised to continue the Nest at Missildine’s legacy. 

Located at 13 S. Trade St., The Nest is open Monday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., and stays open later on 4th Friday events.