Staff writer
Janie Hampton will be the “J” and her daughter Mallory Hall will be the “M” in the name of Peabody’s newest business, J & M Liquor.
The women began investigating the potential of a liquor store several months ago when Rebekah Carter decided to close her store for health reasons Dec. 31.
“Mallory managed All Occasions Liquor in Newton, and I work full-time as an accountant at Wenger Oil,” Hampton said. “We looked into the logistics of putting this together and thought between the two of us we could fill a need in Peabody.”
Hampton is looking toward retirement in a few years and would like to have something to keep her occupied part-time. Her daughter will manage the business until then, and for now Hampton will do the bookwork.
“I like to go to blues festivals and musical weekend events,” she said. “I don’t want to be tied to the store, but I don’t want to just sit at home when I retire, either.
They plan to open June 26. Their hours will be 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Saturday and noon to 6 p.m. Sunday. They will hire part-time help for evenings and weekends.
They have been receiving shipments of liquor and are hoping to get a computer system this week to begin logging inventory.
A beer cooler is installed and waiting to be filled. A smaller cooler will contain wine.
The store will not carry any products that are not alcoholic — ice, mixes, including soda, or snack foods.
The women have been remodeling the former Jackrabbit Hollow bookstore and have used some unusual decorating techniques. Exposed rock walls, old corrugated tin, and rough lumber have been highlighted to give an unusual look to the space. Fresh paint also will contribute to the appearance. Carpet was pulled up, revealing original plank floors installed in the late 1800s.
“We will be painting the outside as well,” Hampton said. “We plan to work on the front in the afternoons when the sun is behind the buildings and when Pop’s Diner is closed so we won’t interfere with his business.”
Hampton’s son-in-law, Rayme Lies, has been the construction chief. Friends and family members have helped evenings and weekends.
“We’re looking forward to opening and serving the Peabody community,” Hampton said. “We’ll strive to make shopping with us a pleasant experience.
“Hopefully, we have ordered enough variety that we will have everyone’s favorite spirits. If we have missed something, let us know and we will try to get it.
“The end is in sight, we are anxious to get this started.”