The Shopping of Flathead Valley, Montana | Shopping Guide for Kalispell, Columbia Falls, Whitefish
- wyckoffsroam
- Mar 8
- 7 min read
We’re a family that’s particular about the atmosphere of the shops we visit, and we always look for places that align with our values of natural and sustainable living. The shops we highlight here are not only warm and welcoming to families with children, but they also offer beautifully curated selections of goods that are mindful of the environment. Each shop is filled with unique treasures, creating a space where both kids and adults can feel comfortable, appreciated, and inspired.
One of our goals with this blog as a whole is to connect our audience with the people behind the business we are sharing. That being said, with each small business we will be including a photograph of the owners and a few Q&As. We hope you enjoy looking through these amazing small businesses and maybe even visit some!
M. Studio
If you ever find yourself in need of a little escape, M. Studio is the perfect place to visit. It’s one of those shops that feels like a breath of fresh air — clean, beautifully designed, and full of timeless European-made pieces that are just made to last.
What makes M. Studio so special, though, isn’t just the clothes. It’s the shop owner, who has become a true friend to our family. She’s one of the warmest, kindest people you’ll ever meet, always with a smile and a genuine interest in how you’re doing. Our kids adore her, and they look forward to saying hi to her sweet dog, who is just as lovable as she is. Visiting M. Studio feels less like shopping and more like spending time with a friend who just happens to have an amazing taste in fashion. If you ever get the chance to stop by, you’ll quickly see why we love it so much.
Madeline Boyle | Shop Owner
If you had a whole day to yourself, how would you spend it?
I love slow mornings! Take a good long walk. I also love to shop for the best groceries... Fresh local produce, specialty meats, etc… the colors and textures of fresh seasonal produce are so beautiful. Then of course figuring out how to cook whatever i have found that is amazing in the season.
What brought you to open your shop?
A good friend of mine had a shop that was so beautiful and inspiring. I would love going in there to visit with her and be in her beautiful space. I wanted to do that too! I have always loved art, interior design, fashion design, photography, and architecture. I have also always loved the experience of interacting with those visual and tactile designs. To walk into a space and feel transformed, to find something new to buy and take home and always remember where you got this piece… I think it is special. I try to find pieces of clothing, accessories, or art for my clients to reflect that special feeling. It is of course different for everyone. It is a joy to bring all my loves of art and design together in a space to share with others.
What is your favorite part about owning a shop in Whitefish?
What is your favorite part about owning a shop in Whitefish?
It is the people. Most honestly, I was not expecting that. I have met some amazing people and I am appreciate anyone who walks in the door.
Alex | Shop Dog <3
406-407-9707
Lyon & Pearle
Lyon & Pearle is a local gem that’s as bright and beautiful as the treasures inside. Known for their heirloom-quality children’s toys and clothing, this shop isn’t just a place to shop — it’s a place that truly celebrates childhood. The owners have a deep love for children, and it shows in everything they do. They greet each child who walks through the door with warmth and genuine excitement, making every visit feel special. And it’s not just for the little ones! They offer a stunning selection of items for ladies, so there’s something for everyone. Whether you're searching for a gift, a timeless piece for your child, or a little something for yourself, Lyon & Pearle makes every experience feel like a celebration of childhood and family.
Grace + Melanie Wyckoff | Manager + Owner
If you had a whole day to yourself, how would you spend it?
Melanie: Begin with coffee, reading, journaling and prayer. Then a workout…Barre3, boxing, cycling, or weights. Then I’d cold plunge in Flathead lake (if it’s winter…in summer time I’d go for a swim!) Then I’d go for a walk to our coffee shop and bring a book and sit in a cozy corner and read with a latte in hand. I’d also catch up on writing letters to loved ones. At this point, I think I’d be lonely for my family and ready to go back to time with them!
Grace: My ideal day would start early with Bible study and coffee (outside if sunny), then a workout or run. After a shower and getting dressed in my favorite dress, I'd enjoy a big homemade breakfast with more coffee! I'd spend a couple of hours cleaning and organizing, then relax with a book for a few hours. I'd have lunch, a walk and a visit to a plant or garden store and a bookstore. I'd end my day with dinner, ice cream, and a movie in bed!
What brought you to open your shop?
I opened my shop as a family venture with my daughters. I value family and community so much and we all truly appreciate spaces that encourage friendship, community, authenticity, sustainability, creativity, beauty and healthy living. We dreamed of opening a space that would shine in all of these areas!
What is your favorite part about owning a shop in Kalispell?
My husband saw that there was a beautiful building space for lease in Kalispell and we fell in love with it! Thus, Lyon and Pearle Kalispell was planted! We are so thankful for each person who walks through our doors. We’ve made such wonderful friendships and we look forward to many more!
406-260-4370
Coyote Modern
This shop is a beautifully curated treasure trove, with something for everyone. Explore collections of locally made goods, including pottery, jewelry, and wall art. You’ll also find a wide range of vintage clothing and shoes for both men and women. The home decor selection is carefully chosen, offering unique pieces to elevate any space. Cody, an uncle with a heart for children, adds a warm, relaxed feeling to the shop, making everyone feel at home. Whether you’re searching for something special for yourself or a gift, you're sure to find something you’ll love to take home.
Cody Bauer | Shop Owner
If you had a whole day to yourself, how would you spend it?
I’d spend a whole day at the gym. As cliche as it probably sounds it is my happy place. I work out all my problems business and personal there and I love the sense of community.
What brought you to open your shop?
I was forced to wear western style clothes til I was 13 so self expression through apparel is major for me. I’ve always been infatuated with fashion and style so naturally after working retail for 15 years it made sense to open one.
What is your favorite part about owning a shop in Columbia Falls?
My favorite part about owning a shop in Columbia Falls is the community. I wasn’t sure how I’d be received, but on day one the people of Columbia Falls started their support. I think Columbia Falls needed something different and design oriented. I also love having a giant closet at my fingertips!
512-934-1118
Wild Wanderer
If you haven’t yet discovered Wild Wanderer, you’re in for a treat. This charming shop is owned by the sweetest mother-daughter duo, and stepping inside feels like entering a world of wonder. The shop is the perfect blend of vintage and new goods (majority vintage), all carefully curated around a shared love for collections and the great outdoors. It’s the kind of place you’ll want to stay and explore for hours, uncovering treasures around every corner.
What truly makes Wild Wanderer special, though, is the warm, welcoming environment they’ve created. Every time we visit, they’re so kind to our kids, making them feel like part of the Wild Wanderer family. Whether you’re looking for something unique for yourself or a fun find for the little ones, there’s something for everyone here. If you’re local (or just passing through), make sure to stop by — it’s more than just a shop, it’s an experience!
Carrie + Megan Crawford | Shop Owners
If you had a whole day to yourself, how would you spend it?
Megan: I'd go out to breakfast and enjoy a cup of coffee, then head into the park with a fresh roll of film—bring along a picnic lunch and break out my travel watercolors, paint whatever I see. It'd end with an early evening in, cozied up under a blanket, cat on lap, book in hand.
Carrie: I'd be in Glacier hiking long backcountry trails!
What brought you to open your shop?
We wanted a space of our own and we already had the shed on our property, it just needed to be freshened up! We love that we can refurbish and repair pieces that would otherwise be overlooked and give them a second chance.
What is your favorite part about owning a shop in Columbia Falls?
Our community here—we've gotten to meet and know so many people through the shop, everyone feels like a neighbor.
Monaco
This shop celebrates Montana’s rich history and culture, featuring carefully curated treasures, including unique native and locally made pieces. What sets Carla apart is her commitment to authenticity—she personally selects every item, never sourcing online and working exclusively with local artisans and antique dealers. As a loving grandmother, Carla warmly welcomes every child who enters, embracing their curiosity and playfulness. Our kids have always felt at home in her shop, making it a special place for families to visit.
Karla | Shop Owner
If you had a whole day to yourself, how would you spend it?
It would definitely be outside bathing in hotsprings.
What brought you to open your shop?
I wasn't looking to open a store, but came across by beautiful space and knew it needed to be filled with wonderful things.
What is your favorite part about owning a shop in Columbia Falls?
I enjoy how quaint Columbia Falls is and all the store owners and community around me.
406-283-5047
Wow, what an incredible journey this project has been - to share the shopping of Flathead Valley, Montana. Our family has truly fallen in love with each of these shops and the wonderful people behind them. It has been such a blessing to photograph and share their stories with you. Whether you're a local or a visitor, we hope you've discovered something new and are inspired to support these amazing businesses and the even more incredible individuals who bring them to life.
Thanks for sharing and for some backstory on each place & shop owner! Super fun!