Woman helps growing artists as head of Albany’s Lark Street Mercantile

ALBANY – Many shoppers don’t want to buy a gift that has been mass-produced. They prefer items that are handmade with a personal touch.

Walking into the Lark Street Mercantile in Albany is like walking into a workshop. There’s clothing, accessories, artwork and more. Most of the items are handmade.

Tamara White’s colorful facemasks jumpstarted her business.

She fell in love with the Lark Street Mercantile because it gives artists like her a place to show their wares.

This year, an unexpected opportunity arose when the owners of the store decided to sell it and move on. Looking for a buyer, they gave White a chance to take it over.

It was during a pandemic and there was a risk, but White – who had poked a little fun at the pandemic through art, decided it was worth it.

Learn about what went in her decision to take over the business, by watching the video of Elaine Houston’s story.