MONROE — It’s been a busy month downtown. First, Everest Nutrition opened at 1117 16th Ave on March 16th and on Saturday, April 10th Mama + Littles Boutique opened at 1005 16th Avenue. Both businesses are women owned and both are within the Main Street Historic District.

Everest Nutrition is owned by Cara Austin. Austin was drawn to Monroe because of the number of existing businesses downtown and the variety of events hosted by Main Street Monroe in a normal year. Located in the former Frank’s Franks space, her business is on the same block as Amy’s Corner Café, Frame ‘n Color, Max’s Threads, and Beauty Couture Lounge. The space includes a variety of seating

guests. Being downtown allows her to be part of the “action.” Everest Nutrition sells a variety of natural based teas, shakes, and drinks; some are specifically for pre and post work outs and can be meal replacements. Many are customizable with boba and collagen being options to add on a drink. There is also protein coffee and a powdered donut energy shot that has been extremely popular so far. Everest Nutrition is open Mondays through Fridays 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and Saturdays 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. 

A couple blocks north at Mama + Littles Boutique, co-owners Ally Schild and Jordan Halvorsen have found that items for boys and custom shirts and bundles for the entire family have been extremely popular. Both Schild and Holverson were operating online businesses when they decided to open a brick and mortar spot together. Their business sells motherhood and maternity clothes and newborn to size 8 for both boys and girls. Additional items include accessories for moms and for children. They plan on emphasizing seasonal and holiday items at affordable price points. It is located near the Monroe Public Library and Mad Charlie’s Café, another business that has opened since the pandemic started. Its address is 1005 16th Avenue. It’s open Thursdays through Saturdays 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sundays 10 a.m. to 2p.m.

Jordan Nordby, Main Street Monroe’s executive director has assisted both businesses with a variety of startup items, like getting signage approved in the historic district and is also helping Everest Nutrition secure permitting for outdoor seating. “It’s really incredible to see these businesses open downtown, especially while the pandemic continues,” he said. Nordby also emphasized the uniqueness of both businesses. “Main Street continues to seek businesses that will complement what already exists and still create new energy and fill niches. Both of these businesses do that.” He also highlighted the strong social media presence both businesses have. “We’re thrilled to welcome them. I think both businesses will be a great success and downtown as long as they want to be.”