Meet Christi Bandy-Willard | Small Business Owner and Advocate

We had the good fortune of connecting with Christi Bandy-Willard and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Christi, is there something that you feel is most responsible for your success?
My commitment to never do business with big box stores and e commerce outlets.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
In a world where big corporations dominate the market, I have learned over the past year especially, there’s a refreshing breeze blowing through the natural products industry, and my business, Mountain Alternatives, a wholesale distributor of private label supplements, oils and herbal remedies is taking the time to hear and understand the current and everyday challenges independent small business owners face, and has grown deeply passion about independent small businesses and the enduring spirit of Main Street entrepreneurs in America.

My business, Mountain Alternatives, isn’t just another distributor. It’s driven by the desire to be a testament to the American dream, built on the pillars of family, community, and unwavering determination. As a women and family-owned operation, Mountain Alternatives embodies the values of personal relationships, integrity, and supporting the underdog.

In an era where e-commerce reigns supreme, I felt in my heart it was time take a different path. Not a new path, just different than the one we were on, and definitely out of the current norm. A true return to grassroots. We made a conscious choice not to participate in the digital marketplace creating even more competition for our independent retail partners. Instead, we focus on fostering genuine connections with brick-and-mortar retailers, providing them with high-quality natural products and unwavering support. True partnership with transparency and advocacy!

Our success lies in our belief in the power of Main Street businesses. We understand the challenges these entrepreneurs face – from rising overhead costs to fierce competition from corporate giants. Yet, I also recognize the unique charm and value these small businesses bring to their communities. They are the heart of America. They are the roots of the communities they serve.

I also choose not to measure the success of my business on bottom line profits generated. Success isn’t just about profits; it’s about lifting up the dreams of others in an effort to accomplish something much larger than our individual agendas. It’s about purpose, connection, and the inate desire we all have to be a part of something larger than ourselves. To be valued as an individual, while being a part of something bigger. I am not just a distributor, but a partner in the journey of the small business we call “Partner”. Whether it’s providing personalized support, offering guidance on product selection, or simply lending an empathetic ear, Mountain Alternatives will always strive to be there every step of the way with a listening ear and helping hand.

Perhaps what truly sets my business apart is our unwavering belief in the American spirit. I see entrepreneurship as more than just a way to make a living – it’s a reflection of the indomitable human spirit, fueled by passion, perseverance, and a relentless pursuit of dreams.

In a world where impersonal transactions have become the norm, I believe in bringing back the human touch to business, and aligning with the partners that also have a passion for service to their community is truly what will bring success. The power of face-to-face interactions, handshakes, and heartfelt conversations is limitless! It’s this personal touch that has endeared us to countless Main Street businesses across the country,

Every success story of a small business we can helped nurture is a testament to the enduring American spirit. We all take pride in being part of something greater – a movement to preserve the essence of Main Street, where community thrives, and dreams take flight.

In a rapidly changing world, the desire to remain steadfast in commitment to the values that define us as wives, mothers daughters, sisters, business owners, and most of all women, is truly the key to finding ourselves in success, not just as business owners, but as difference makers and world changers. As I continue my journey in the natural products industry, one thing is clear – the spirit of Main Street is alive and well, and I am here for that!

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
After picking her up from the airport on Friday, I would take her to Ponce City Market to check out Modern Mystic Shop to see what’s new, and then over to Nut’s N Berries in Brookhaven to see what new organic, non-gmo treat Mari has before heading to the North Georgia Mountains. Dinner in Blue Ridge at The General Ledger (Ryan and Sofia are amazing!). A round of golf at White Path Golf Club in Ellijay Saturday morning, and probably a Cherokee County Bruins Semi Pro Football game if they were in season. If not, probably just a night on Willard Mountain around a fire with some good wine and bad jokes. We’d laugh anyway. Best way to end the trip would be a pre flight out stop at Paisley Nail Studio in Tate so Amelia could work her magic! Then lunch at The Varsity on the way back to the airport. That’s tradition!

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/christi.reedbandy/