When Matthew and Piper Marquette opened the Flying Bison Mercantile in July 2021, their vision was two fold: sharing their handmade leather goods and supporting local, small town businesses. “We want to provide quality products and services while spotlighting other small businesses in our community.” The Mercantile showcases some of the Marquette’s beautiful bison and cowhide hand tooled products, along with local photography, state prison contract items, handmade soap, hand woven rugs and a variety of other products.
“We want to provide quality products and services while spotlighting other small businesses in our community.”
The Flying Bison slogan, Find Joy in Your Journey, has been a focal point for Piper and Matthew. When Matthew created replica leather patches from his grandfather’s WWII service in 2013, he discovered a creative outlet which allowed much versatility. He quickly progressed to creating functional pieces, asking Piper for advice on construction. One day, Piper realized they had all these tools and leather, but she did not even have a leather purse. So, she decided to make one herself. At that point, they both recognized how much they enjoyed creating with leather. “Our leather, both bison and cow hide, are US sourced and tanned. Everything else happens right here at the Mercantile.” Popular items in the shop include handbags, purses, custom leather wallets (the only product made of Italian leather for the slim line), belts, suspenders, and briefcase bags. The Mercantile has also been busy with custom orders. Their laser cutter/engraver allows for economical products to be made for large orders.
“Our leather, both bison and cow hide, are US sourced and tanned. Everything else happens right here at the Mercantile.”
With cost going up across all markets in the United States, the Marquette’s are needing to focus on streamlining their offerings. The Mercantile is currently getting a storefront redesign for the upcoming summer 2022 tourist season. For more information, visit the Flying Bison Mercantile website at flyingbisonmt.com. The Marquette’s will host a Choteau Chamber of Commerce After Hours event on Thursday, May 19 from 5-7pm. Appetizers and beverages will be served.
The Chamber Spotlight is a series highlighting member businesses of the Choteau Chamber of Commerce. Interested in having your business highlighted in a Chamber Spotlight? Chamber members can contact the Chamber at: choteauchamber@gmail.com