In its first week open, Belmont University’s new student-run business, Where the Well Things Are, is working to live out its message of “mind, body and soul.”
The wellness store on Belmont Boulevard held its grand opening Aug. 27, and in the following weeks reported a successful start with an influx of new business and partnerships.
“We’ve been really impressed with the turnout that we’ve had — especially the support from the community,” said student team member Daphne Johnson.
From its open layout to the greenery and essential oils that they sell, the staff aims to cultivate a space for students to focus on their overall well-being and promote their physical, mental or spiritual wellness. The store offers products such as sustainable cleaning supplies, plants and self-help books, and many products on sale are locally sourced or come from Belmont alumni vendors, including Hoop House and Walker Brothers.
Customer Katey Fritt said she likes the store’s focus on sustainable products, and student team member Erin Eversole specifically recommended the store’s reusable and refillable cleaning products.
“I think they are a great introduction into making small changes towards environmental sustainability in your everyday life. They also smell really good,” Eversole said.
Johnson recommends the store’s mindfulness books and journals, specifically “Ruthless Elimination of Hurry” by John Mark Comer. She says that it highlights the importance of rest — an often unprioritized practice for busy students.
Belmont Vision / Jenna Roberts
With the store entering its second week of business, there are only a few products on sale, but Where the Well Things Are is open to new suggestions and recommendations via their customer feedback sheets.
Customer feedback is always welcomed and constructive criticism is a huge part of the store’s growth process, said Johnson.
In the future, the team hopes to expand the list of vendors to include even more local businesses and Belmont alumni.
They also hope to connect with other organizations on campus like SURGE — a sustainability club on campus — as well as the Belmont FitRec in hopes of furthering their wellness outreach outside of the doors of the store and making improvements to the business with the community’s help.
“We’re student-run and we’re working on it,” Johnson said.
Where the Well Things Are is now open from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday.
Belmont Vision / Jenna Roberts
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PHOTO: Inside Where the Well Things Are. Belmont Vision / Jenna Roberts.
This article was written by Maddie Buchman and Melody Scott.