Southport Magazine

Q: How would you describe the vibe of your shop?

My customers have commented that the Gatehouse has a very French, New Orleans feel and vibe to it. I have been in business for almost twenty years. Thirteen of which have been here in Southport…originally on Moore St. many still remember me as Under the Eaves.. I changed the name when I moved uptown in 2008 to Meesha Co. Now at my final location 620 Howe St. Meesha Co. at the Gatehouse. I added Gatehouse to the name because, at one time, there was a gate across Howe Street that was opened and closed in the mornings and evenings. I am located in one of the 3 houses built in the 1920s for 3 sisters and they came to be called the Gatehouses because there proximity to the gate. I believe I can attribute my longevity in the retail business to my pure will to be independent and make a living for myself and being able to adapt to changing economics and circumstances as a chameleon would.

Q: What do you attribute your success?

The Gatehouse is a very eclectic shop and I suppose that is a reflection of my personality. I imagine I could make more money buying and selling run of the mill chain store type gifts that appeal to the majority, but I would have been be bored years ago I love the thrill of hunting for treasures not found everywhere.
Q: Your shop is very eclectic! Which items are your bestsellers?

Typical a gift item you would find at the Gatehouse would more likely be a brass sparrow paperweight, a wind mobile with black bats made from driftwood or a magnifying glass with a goat horn handle. I would have to say thought that my most popular item is my vintage inspired clothing that is ageless with a romantic feel yet something you would feel comfortable wearing to the waterfront. To enjoy a glass of wine and watch the sunset.

Q: I find that the shops in Southport are a reflection of their owners tastes and interests. How is Gatehouse a reflection of you, Meesha? The front porch of your shop holds an assortment of garden related gifts. What can $50 buy? You have a large reclaimed wood mirror behind your counter. Where do you find such unique and appealing pieces? If I came into your shop in search of a gift for my mother/sister/friend, what would I probably leave with?

I would say that the Gatehouse reflects my love of vintage items both in clothing and gifts. Since I have such a beautiful large porch on the Gatehouse, I like to have a spattering of garden related items, unusual flower pots in the shape of burlap sacks, baskets, water faucet soap dishes and bud vases…all under $50. I also have some more expensive items such as metal alligator yard art and deer planters made from recycled steel drums. I always like to have a few one of kind pieces I pick up on my travels found in old barns and farms of friends in Virginia. So, if you were to shop in my store for a gift for your mother, friend or sister, you would come away with something they would love …something uncommon. Perhaps a necklace made from orange peels and tropical seeds and hand dyed in magnificent hues, a fringed vest or an arrowhead necklace.