FEATURED COVER STORY
The Olive Cart Boutique & Gifts
O
by Jodi Varnado
ne of the features of a small-town charm is
Biblically-minded and family-focused. Amanda’s children
being able to shop small and support a local
are even the source of The Olive Cart’s name. “It’s a
shop owner—a sense of community we cherish
combination of my children’s names without actually
here in the South. The Olive Cart Boutique & Gifts, a
using their names—Alivia and Carter—while also having
hometown boutique run by the owner, Amanda Tripp, is
a Biblical note. Alivia’s name stems from olives, olive trees,
one such example!
and olive branches, which are all mentioned throughout the
The Olive Cart Boutique & Gifts opened in November
Bible and carry different meanings each time, such as peace,
of 2020, but it has been an inspired idea of Amanda’s for a
cleansing, healing, victory, etc. With Carter, the meaning of
while. “I have worked in retail previously, for about seven
his name is a cart, driver of a cart, etc. I hope that through
years, and I always really enjoyed it. Having my store was
my business, I am able to drive the cart with God’s Word to
something I’ve wanted for a long time, but I never dreamed
all I meet,” said Tripp.
it was possible. Over time, God has placed certain people
Amanda’s business grew out of need—a need for
in my life at the right times, and with their suggestions and
creative fulfillment and financial support. Little did she
ideas, my dream became a reality. My husband—rather, my
know that handcrafted earrings and soap would eventually
biggest fan—has been an overwhelming supporter of my
lead to an entire storefront. “My youngest child—who will
dream too,” said Tripp.
be nine in October—was diagnosed with Spinal Muscular
The boutique not only carries with it a sense of hometown delight, but the store atmosphere is also
26 // October 2021
Atrophy when she was fifteen months old. Due to her frequent doctor’s appointments, therapies, and clinical trial
