Even though this last year was well, different; we are so thankful to all of our team members and customers who helped us make it through to 2021! To kick off the start of a new year we want to highlight our wonderful stores and communities who help keep us doing what we love!

This week we are headed to our Homewood store to chat with our store manager, Grace Willis! Our Homewood store is our flagship store and we have been so grateful to be a part of the community since 1975! Let’s check it out!

 

How long have you worked at AO and what interested you about working here?

I have worked with AO for 7 years. I originally began working at the Mobile store out of college. After a while, I became the Manager for over 3 years. After moving to Birmingham, I eventually came back to manage Inverness and now Homewood! I’ve been at Homewood for over 2 years now. -Grace

 

What we love about Homewood

I love what Homewood has to offer! Not only is it beautiful and quaint, but there is literally something around every corner and a shop or business for almost anything you can think of! It’s amazing how local-focused it is and how much that is supported! It really brings everyone together. -Grace

 

Which Alabama Outdoors core value resonates with you the most?

Our purpose – Influencing people to get outside in Alabama and beyond while building one connection at a time! The biggest “day maker” to myself and our team members is having the opportunity to not only get people excited about their next adventure and finding the right gear for those excursions but also hearing the incredible stories our customers have to tell us about the places they are going or have gone! I love living vicariously through others’ experiences. Plus, our customers can teach us a few things too! -Grace

 

Our favorite places to explore near Homewood

I know this is no “hidden gem” but honestly, I love Oak Mountain! There is so much to do there! It’s a great place for families, beginners or advanced hikers and campers, plus activities for everyone outside beyond just that. It truly will fill your day with plenty to do – or even a weekend if you choose to stay longer (I recommend it!). -Grace

Did you know?

Oak Mountain State Park has a demonstration farm that is a great activity for families! This Fall we partnered with Oak Mountain State Park to photograph our Fall product lines and we had so much fun with the staff there. The goats were so fun to feed and the peacocks are beautiful! The park is breathtaking and there is adventure around every corner!

 

 

What is your favorite brand right now and why?

Arc’teryx for sure. Some are intimidated by it, but it truly is a brand that anyone can enjoy. They are classic yet so advanced when it comes to technicality and detail. They put so much extra work and time into their pieces that they are meant to last you a lifetime. -Grace

 

What is your favorite way to enjoy the outdoors?

Being from the Gulf, I definitely love any and all things water-related, whether that be snorkeling hidden natural springs, paddle boarding in the Gulf, or hammocking near a river! However, now that I live in Birmingham and have more access to great hiking and camping spots, I really enjoy it when I have the opportunity to go! You can’t beat the great weather we have in the Fall and early winter for camping! -Grace

 

 

Interested in adding hammocking to your Spring adventures this year? Pick out your favorite hammock and check out our video on How To Hammock!

 

 

We want everyone to enjoy the outdoors, and we work to build loyalty one connection at a time. Visit one of our stores or take advantage of our shipping or curbside pickup! #BeOutdoors