Beginnings.

It all started with "I do."

C & L Mercantile began the same way many good stories do—with two people finding each other at exactly the right time.

When Charlie and Lindsey met, life wasn't particularly simple for either of them. But from the very beginning, they listened, showed up, and took care of one another. Somewhere between the everyday moments, the chemistry, and the laughter, they realized they had found a true partner.

On August 17, 2023, Lindsey let it slip that she'd love to marry the man she'd known for 15 years and had become friends with over the previous nine months. Charlie heard her loud and clear. The next day, he showed up with a ring. Lindsey said yes.

A little over a month later, on September 30, they were married in a small backyard wedding.

Some things don't need years of deliberation. When you know, you know.

—

Similar to how Charlie and Lindsey started, so did C & L Mercantile—with the first leather purse Charlie made for Lindsey.

Everywhere she went, people asked about it. Friends, strangers, and fellow makers all wanted to know where it came from. One of those conversations happened with an artist at The Market at Birdhouse Brewing. With much encouragement, it was Charlie's turn to say "I do."​

And he did. Charlie dusted off an old painting he had made of himself years ago and added a profile of Lindsey. Lindsey built a website. Together, they started dreaming, planning, and creating.

And just like that, here they are.

Today you'll find handcrafted leather goods, fabric bags, purses, and whatever else catches their fancy. They enjoy trying new things, learning as they go, and seeing what can be created when they put effort & attention to it. 

Their products are meant to be used, worn, weathered, and loved. The scratches, creases, and stories that come with time aren't flaws—they're the good stuff.

As C & L Mercantile grows, Charlie and Lindsey hope to feature other artists and makers who share similar values of creativity and authenticity, building not only products they love, but a life they love, too.

Their first show will be at Birdhouse Brewing on July 25, 2026. They'd love for you to stop by, take a peek, enjoy a beer, listen to some great music, and say hello.

—

As they launch C & L Mercantile, they're also beginning a new chapter. With an upcoming move and a transition to a new VA medical system, they're simplifying life and focusing on what matters most: being together and making every moment count.

Thanks for being here and joining them at the beginning of the next chapter.

— Charlie & Lindsey