Building a Business
story by Jordan Pupa
Shade Tree Outfitters is so much more than an outdoor & sporting goods store. Located on East Main St. in downtown Lake City, the charming store has an inviting and relaxed feel where a whole family can stop in for a shopping trip and find something of interest. Calvin Porter is the sole owner of Shade Tree Outfitters with everyday operations run by his mother, brother, and wife. A family environment full of laughs, southern hospitality, and an extra sense of purpose and pride are sure to keep customers returning!
Calvin Porter describes himself as a “plain ole country boy” and has been able to share his love of southern roots with others. Years ago, he had an idea of opening a business that sold southern t-shirts. Over the years the ideas for the store continued to grow as he started to think about fishing and hunting supplies. As a husband and father of three little girls, he also knew it would be essential to include some ladies and kid’s apparel as well. Lake City was the desired location of choice in order to cater to the needs of family and friends. With the will to make it happen and a market need for offered products, he finally brought his idea to life. Shade Tree Outfitter’s grand opening was held at the end of October. “I wanted a local store that offered hunting and fishing supplies with a hometown feel and to offer local clothing options that were lacking in the area,” explains Calvin. “Now, you don’t have to drive to a surrounding city to find a big selection of Carolina and Clemson apparel or other name brand clothing that is popular in the south. Here in Lake City, we get to see all those familiar faces and still get to build relationships with new customers too.”
The store carries everything from hunting and fishing gear to other items like t-shirts and southern apparel. They also support local businesses by carrying their products including BugScreen out of Lake City, Oak 84 candles out of Hartsville, AC Designs necklaces out of Columbia, Local Boy out of Columbia, and Dorman Lures out of Kingstree. “We try our best to support and carry as many local items as we can as long as they appeal to our clientele,” says Calvin. The store even supports East Clarendon High School’s Bass Fishing Team by offering discounts on certain items. “Bass fishing is not your average leisure activity for high school students and we have enjoyed them becoming regulars and giving us feedback. We wish them the best of luck!”
For more information on sales and to check out new items, you can keep up with Shade Tree Outfitters on Facebook (@shadetreeoutfittersllc). They hope to have a fully functioning website in the near future where anything in the store can also be purchased online. Feedback and desired product suggestions from customers are also appreciated as they take off. When you support local at Shade Tree Outfitters and meet the family behind the business, you enjoy a connection you would not otherwise have. Shade Tree Outfitters will ensure that uniqueness is preserved as a part of Lake City. Stay tuned for great sales this holiday season at Shade Tree Outfitters!
Shade Tree Outfitters, 124 E Main St, Downtown Lake City, 843.374.0124