Clover & Co.: New clothing exchange store

BONNERS FERRY — Clover & Co. opened its doors on March 1, welcoming the community into the cozy boutique with a flair for style and design. Unique pieces of clothing and jewelry adorn the hangers and walls, inviting the shopper to peruse through the ever-changing collection, maybe pull out a particularly pleasing blouse, and try it on for size in one of the light, spacious dressing rooms.

“Clover & Co. is a unique retail store, in that we are focused on sourcing from our local and surrounding communities through a clothing exchange for men, women, and children, as well as artisans making beautiful products with an emphasis on the creativity within the North Idaho market,” explained owner and stylist Norma Umphress.

Umphress runs Clover & Co. with her daughter, Amanda Langston. The idea for the company had been percolating for a few years, but it wasn’t until August of last year that they knew the time was right. At that point, it was just a matter of waiting for the right building and location to present itself.

“Since the closing of a few retail stores in downtown Bonners Ferry a few years back, I think it left a real void in the retail community. We are now seeing a few retail stores open again and this excites me,” said Umphress. “I wish them well.”

The name came from another family member — Langston’s dog, a weimaraner named Clover. After a few days of bouncing around ideas, Umphress glanced down at Clover, who sat patiently beside them, looking up at them. Umphress said, “How about Clover & Co.?”

The name stuck.

Clover & Co. is not only about the clothing, also carrying home decor, accessories, jewelry, and Organic Infusions essential oils. As a clothing exchange, it stands out in Bonners Ferry, filling a niche between thrift stores and department stores.

“When most of us go shopping, it is for the purpose of meeting a personal need,” explained Umphress. “If we need a dress for an occasion, we go and buy a dress. If we need new shirt or jeans, we go buy a new shirt or jeans. At some point, we tend to no longer want or need those clothing items and many times end up donating them to a thrift store or throwing them out.”

Although there are social media and online venues to buy and sell used clothing for top dollar prices, many people do not have the time to search for what they are looking for and arrange for meeting times, and hoping the clothing fits.

“This is where Clover & Co. comes in,” said Umphress. “What if there were a place where you could bring those gently used/like new items and give back to the community while at the same time you get some money in return to go towards something else you may need or want? If we believe we can resell the item(s), we will give 30 percent cash upfront of that resale amount or offer 50 percent store credit.”

Although Clover & Co. loves name brand-clothing, they are more flexible than many other clothing exchange stores, considering all brands as long as they are like new or gently used. They plan to continue to grow and evolve, currently building up a maternity section, and hoping to offer a special occasion section in the near future.

“Our desire is to offer a retail experience for individuals that value quality, design, and uniqueness at affordable prices,” said Umphress. “Thus far, it has been well received.”

Umphress’ background includes 15 years working for Disneyland Resorts in the accounting department and 10 years of City Government in administration and human resources, while she lived in Southern California. In 2006, she moved to a small town in Montana with her family where she learned the small restaurant and barista business, opening and managing a Bistro, as well as being the head chef, where she created the recipes. She also had the pleasure and privilege of working with teens, teaching a Leadership Development Through Art Program that also encompassed extensive customer service training.

Umphress moved to Bonners Ferry in 2013. She worked in hospitality part-time at a little lodge in town for three years; at the same time, she found herself back in administration/accounting for a year at a new auto dealership in Sagle. After a successful career in corporate and small business management, Umphress decided to focus on starting a local business that can serve the community. She lives locally with her husband, two grown children, and son-in-law.

“It is important to me to be part of the Boundary County community and Clover & Co. allows us a fun and unique way to give back to our community,” said Umphress. “I am very blessed to call it home.”

Langston brings seven years of experience in the sales and marketing industry, as well as having worked as a wedding and event coordinator for a Hilton in Montana before relocating to North Idaho. She then left the hospitality industry to work in an area of her passion, which is design. She currently works as the Project Coordinator for a local custom home builder.

“I love exploring the beautiful outdoors of North Idaho with my husband and our dog, Clover,” said Langston. “Although I am not at the store daily, I am excited to get to share my passion and to be a part of Clover & Co.”

“I have met the most wonderful people in this area,” said Umphress. “Part of what makes Bonners Ferry special is, of course, its natural beauty and fresh air. But, it is the people who knit the community together, that make it a community. I enjoy seeing people in the store that run into others they know. It is evident that there is an element in the community that fosters caring for one another.”

“Come by and say hello,” said Umphress. “You just may find that special something you’ve been looking for.”