The Holmes Store has reached a milestone rare for business — they are more than 100 years old.

A cornerstone of Main Street Northeast Harbor, the store is owned and managed by Peggy Richardson, who has kept the classical pieces it has always been known for, but added some of her own touches to keep things fresh.

Peggy has kept much of the store’s established inventory, for men particularly. “Men like to have the same things year after year, just with maybe a twist of a color change. Women want to have something new every year. You’re walking a fine line of trying to keep all the traditional things that everyone loves, but still infusing some new things that will bring people in.”

Like every established business, The Holmes Store has its best sellers. Favorites include Bills Khakis for men (Made in the USA), Pima cotton polo shirts in a wide variety of colors (with or without pockets), Sperry boat shoes for both men and women, and Scottish sweaters in both Shetland wool and Lamora, a blend of merino and angora that is unbelievably soft. Henri Lloyd outerwear is a line for sailing, but it can be worn any time. The weather can determine whether cotton dresses or wool sweaters are more popular in a given season, but The Holmes Store is ready for any weather Mother Nature has to offer.

In terms of specialty services you may not know about, The Holmes Store carries a line of bags that can be monogrammed and regularly special orders items for customers.

They also sell many unhemmed trousers and work directly with a local seamstress who can hem them to the desired length within 1-2 days. And for everything, they offer gift wrapping.

Peggy has also worked to bring in clothes and accessories at a range of price points to appeal to a wider audience within the community.

The Holmes Store likes to concentrate on American made and recycled products when bringing in new inventory. JA Designer Collections of Bucksport makes fabric statement necklaces. Colorful ties made of Liberty fabrics and bags made out of recycled billboards are also made in the USA.

“I’ve got a few Canadian companies too, which I feel really good about, because I’m actually Canadian by birth” says Peggy, who has dual citizenship. Interestingly, her husband’s family are descendants of one of the original European families to settle in Mount Desert – so the couple is a true blend of locals and folks from away.

Personal service, a positive and welcoming attitude, and Peggy’s ready smile are all onhand when you enter the store, and part of her approach to the business. “As long as you’re here and you provide really great customer service, and you do your best and have a smile on your face, you’re appreciated and people are going to support you.”

Stop into The Holmes Store and say hello to Peggy and her staff. Despite having help, Peggy is often in the store, as she thinks having the owner present sets a good tone.

She often has ads in the MDIslander about new offerings and her website is in progress. We bet you’ll find something you’ll love… and maybe even something
special for another person on your list.