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MEET THE MERCHANT: SUE SMITH WITH MISTY MOUNTAIN DESIGNS

May 15, 2019

Contributed by Teresa Tibol, TCI Group, Lowry & Foster, Inc. & Believe in Bristol Volunteer

Before moving to Bristol, Sue Smith, owner of Misty Mountain Designs,worked for a jewelry store called the Silver Heron in Maryland. She enjoyed working with people, scouting for and buying merchandise, and even making her own jewelry (using her craftier side). She saw great potential in the Bristol area, about twenty-two years ago, when she and her former husband purchased land and began their move here. She was ready to start her own store. She came up with the Misty Mountain Design name while standing on top of one of the mountains on their land. She looked out and saw the mist over the mountains and heard the Misty Mountain song in her head. Misty Mountain Designs was born.

Sue started her first store in the Bristol mall. Her first space was a small kiosk. She went thru two expansions into larger and larger spaces until she settled into a store with 3800 square feet. Approximately five years ago she opened a second location here in Downtown Bristol. Once it became apparent that the plan for the Bristol Mall was changing, she decided to focus all her efforts on her downtown Bristol store and closed the mall store in 2017.

Sue loves to support downtown Bristol in any way she can. When I asked her some of her favorite places to visit, as far as restaurants were concerned, she said, “All of the restaurants.” But when I made her pick a favorite, she said she frequents Bank Street the most. For lunch she frequents Bloom and Burger Bar, but tries to support everyone equally. When it comes to her sweet tooth, she just has to go to Southern Churn to satisfy her cravings. Her favorite outdoor space is Holston Dam. Here, she likes to take her dog, Cash, while her cat, Dolly, waits patiently at home. Her pets have always come from rescues. She rescues others, as well, by acting as a foster parent while she locates them a new home.

Misty Mountain Designs may have started out with jewelry, but now you can find a unique gift for anyone on your list, and especially yourself. They have clothing, jewelry(men and women’s), body jewelry, collectible stones and gems, crystals, tapestries, blankets, sarongs, incense, oils,bags, purses, pouches and plenty of other great gifts. While the overall theme is bohemian, the items are sure to please anyone. This store is a must see for everyone to get an idea of all they have to offer. There are so many items to see in her store, so come spend some time in there. You will surely find something you must have. Stop by as soon as you can and say “Hi” to Sue.