More Than a Smoke Shop: Westside Tobacco & More Celebrates 10 Years of Community, Kindness and Growth

When Andrew Larkins and Darla Garvin opened Westside Tobacco 10 years ago, they

weren't just starting a business, they were building a dream. "We wanted to have something of our own," Darla said. "And we wanted it to be on the west side of town where I grew up."

Like many small businesses, the road to success wasn't easy. During their very first

summer, the street in front of the store was under construction, making it difficult for

customers to access the business. At the same time, both Andrew and Darla continued

working full-time jobs while trying to establish their new venture.

"There were times we wondered if we were going to make it," they recalled. "We weren't

sure if the business would be sustainable."

But they kept showing up every day, opening their doors with consistent hours, friendly smiles, and a determination to create something special. Those early years laid the foundation for what has become one of Manistique's successful locally owned businesses.

Today, Westside Tobacco is much more than its name suggests.

After outgrowing their original location, Andrew and Darla moved into a larger building and expanded their inventory to meet the changing interests of their customers. While tobacco and vape products remain an important part of the business, visitors are often surprised to discover shelves filled with Young Living essential oils, Superior Chaga products, Borealis Backwoods Apothecary items, Dr. Squatch products, apparel, body jewelry, candles, and unique gifts.

"The little moments are some of our favorites," they said. "Someone comes in for the

first time expecting only a smoke shop and is delighted to discover everything else we

carry. Then they come back."

For Andrew and Darla, however, the products have never been the heart of the

business.

"The customers," they said without hesitation. "They make even the difficult days better."

Over the past decade, they've watched customers celebrate life's biggest milestones, navigate personal hardships, and stop in simply to visit. They've witnessed acts of generosity that remind them why they love owning a small business.

"There have been times when someone didn't have enough money with them, and the

next customer quietly paid the difference," they shared. "Those moments remind us

what a caring community we live in." Those everyday interactions have transformed customers into friends and made Westside Tobacco a gathering place where people know they'll be greeted with a smile and treated like family.

"We love making our customers feel welcome," they said. "Knowing that a smile or just

a kind word can make a difference for someone makes it all worthwhile."

That sense of community extends well beyond the walls of the business.

A few years ago, Andrew and Darla launched Westside Flannel Fest, a community event that has continued to grow each year thanks to local businesses, volunteers, sponsors, and residents who have embraced the celebration

"It's become something we're really proud of," they said," Every year it gets bigger and better because of the support from our community."

That same community has been instrumental in the success of Westside Tobacco.

"We have had great support from the community and other local businesses," they said.

"We would not have been able to continue in business this long without that support."

They are also quick to recognize the many people behind the scenes who have helped

make the business possible.

"Our family and friends have all played a huge part in our success," they said. "Whether it's covering a shift, picking up orders, watching our grandkids, or simply listening after a long day, we couldn't have done this without them. They know how much we value them."

On July 24, Westside Tobacco celebrated its 10-year anniversary with refreshments,

special promotions, and raffle baskets. The event brought together longtime customers,

new visitors, family, and friends to celebrate a decade of memories.

For Victoria George, Executive Director of Schoolcraft Tourism & Commerce, Westside Tobacco represents exactly what makes locally owned businesses so important.

"Small businesses like Westside Tobacco are the heart of our community," George said. "Andrew and Darla have done far more than build a successful business, they've built relationships. Their commitment to outstanding customer service, their willingness to adapt and grow, and their investment in community events like Westside Flannel Fest have helped strengthen the west side of Manistique and made our community a better place to live and visit."

George added that reaching the 10-year milestone is an accomplishment worthy of

celebration.

"Starting a business takes courage. Sustaining it for a decade takes perseverance, passion, and an unwavering commitment to your customers. Andrew and Darla exemplify what it means to be local business owners who truly care about the people they serve. Schoolcraft Tourism & Commerce is proud to congratulate them on this milestone and looks forward to watching them continue to grow over the next 10 years."

When asked what advice they would offer someone considering opening a small

business, Andrew and Darla kept it simple.

"Keep your schedule consistent," they said. "Customers like to know they can count on certain hours to shop."

As they look toward the future, their goals remain much the same as when they first

unlocked the doors a decade ago, to continue growing with their customers' needs,

remain an important part of the community, and keep improving the west side of

Manistique.

Most of all, they want the community to know just how grateful they are.

"We feel very honored to have been in business this long," they said. "We appreciate

every one of our customers. Without you, there would be no business to celebrate."

Ten years after opening their doors, Westside Tobacco continues to prove that the best

local businesses are built not only on products and sales, but on relationships, trust, and

a genuine commitment to the community they call home.

Contact Information:

Address: 315 Deer Street, Manistique

Hours: Mon - Sat 8:00 am - 7:00 pm

Sun 10:00am-4:00pm

Phone: (906) 341-2024

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/westsidetobacco