About Us
Welcome to Mercantile 1888
If there is one word that defines Mercantile 1888, it is connection. Co-founders Amanda Lewis, a science teacher, and Stephanie Kinney, a therapist, first crossed paths while working together in education. Seeking a creative outlet during the pandemic, they began antiquing and refinishing architectural salvage items, falling in love with the history behind every piece they found.
After initial retail ventures, they discovered a historic building at 765 Haddon Avenue in Collingswood. Driven by community support, local business mentors, and fate, their original retail store evolved into South Jersey's premier non-alcoholic bar and bottle shop.
Built on Fate and Local Support
Opening our doors on the morning of Collingswood May Fair was an unforgettable moment of community spirit. When time was running out, nearby business owners, friends, and neighbors showed up late into the night, pulling all-nighters to help finish setting up the shop down to the final second before opening.
Our menu evolved just as organically. When guests immediately began asking for craft mocktails, local mixologist Carla Camerieri stepped in to help design our beverage program using donated zero-proof spirits from neighborhood partners. What started with just 4 bar seats has naturally grown into a vibrant 16-seat social hub where every visitor is welcomed like family.
Honoring Our Roots and Welcoming Everyone
Our store sits inside a historic bank building from the early 1900s—the exact same building where Amanda's great-aunt worked nearly a century ago. To honor this deep local history and our families, framed photos of our great-grandfathers rest proudly on our store shelves.
Whether you live a fully sober lifestyle, are practicing mindful drinking, or simply want a welcoming spot to socialize with friends, everyone has a place here. Steph lives a sober lifestyle while Amanda does not, and together they created a space where adults can connect over craft functional drinks without revolving around alcohol.
