Read ‘N Post To Close

Late last week customers at Read ‘N Post were surprised to learn that the Montecito retail landmark, located in Montecito Country Mart, shared plans to close at the end of April. In business in Montecito for nearly 40 years, Read ‘N Post is a favorite among locals who go to peruse the extensive collection of greeting cards, magazines, newspapers, wrapping supplies, gifts, and more. It’s also a full-service post office, and a convenient spot in the Mart to send a package, mail a letter, buy shipping supplies, and stock up on stamps. The shop was originally located in Coast Village Walk next to Starbucks before moving to Montecito Country Mart in 2012. Owners Jan Hendrickson and John Deveraux report that the store is no longer economically feasible, thanks to recent hardships from the pandemic, the Thomas Fire, and the 1/9 Debris Flow. 

Greeting cards, gifts, office supplies, and more are currently on sale at the store through Saturday, April 24, when the store will close its doors. We’ll have much more on the closure, as well as the shop’s legacy and longtime employees, in next week’s Our Town column. 

Montecito Country Mart reps tell us the post office will remain open while the vacant space undergoes a makeover to make way for a new business, Montecito Mercantile. Set to be managed and overseen by longtime retailer and merchandiser Kelly Finefrock, the Mercantile will feature a selection of high quality items including home décor, men and women’s clothing, magazines, books, gifts, kitchen and tabletop items, apothecary, and a handful of pantry items. “It’s everyday items made exceptionally well,” said Finefrock, who Mart shoppers will remember from Hudson Grace, which she managed before moving to the James Perse store at the Miramar. “I missed the Mart so much, and I’m happy to be back. This is truly home for me,” she said, adding that she is looking forward to helping curate this new store, which is owned in part by a local couple with much retail experience. “They always knew they wanted to open a store here, and I’m happy to help make it happen,” she said. 

We’ll have more on Montecito Mercantile as the space comes together, which is expected by Memorial Day. Finefrock says the space will be a true community gathering spot, offering book signings and tasting events. 

For more information about Montecito Country Mart, visit www.montecitocountrymart.com.