In the scenic mountain town of Hochatown, Oklahoma—where Broken Bow Lake and Beavers Bend State Park draw thousands of visitors each year—there’s a retail gem that blends charm, quality, and a whole lot of Hochatime. Meet Hochatown Mountain Co., a fast-growing boutique that has become a favorite for tourists and locals alike.
We caught up with owner Mary Beth Womack to hear how she turned a carwash into a destination shop, why playtime matters just as much as product, and how she’s delivering a shopping experience that lives up to the expectations of the sophisticated outdoor traveler.
Can you tell us a bit about the inspiration behind your store and what makes it unique compared to other retail shops?
“Hochatown is a unique mountain town in Southeast Oklahoma attracting thousands of tourists each year,” explains Womack. “My husband and I have been bringing our family here for over 15 years and have watched the tremendous growth. I knew there was potential—and in July 2023, I opened Hochatown Mountain Co. with the goal of delivering a shopping experience to match our visitors’ expectations.”
What makes it different?
It’s not just the product mix—it’s the vibe. “Our philosophy is simple: Customers should have a pleasant experience regardless of whether they buy anything,” she says. “We have games and activities on our covered porch like checkers, Jenga, and cornhole. You can sit in the Adirondack chairs and just hang out. Because after all, in Hochatown—we’re all on Hochatime!”
How has the local community’s support impacted your business, especially when times are challenging?
“The businesses in Hochatown truly support and encourage each other,” Womack says. “We all share the same customers, so it’s in our best interest to lift each other. I love referring customers to local restaurants and attractions. It builds trust and goodwill.”
What advice do you have for a new business owner?
“Test new products in small quantities. If something doesn’t sell well, mark it down and move on—don’t waste valuable shelf space,” advises Womack. “And accept that not every idea is going to be a great one. Retail is trial and error. You’ll figure it out.”
How do you promote your store to attract new customers?
“I post daily on Facebook and Instagram,” she says. “It’s simple, direct, and has made a big difference in getting people through the door.”
What trends or popular items have you noticed this season, and how do you select the products you offer in your store?
Womack takes a playful, intuitive approach to buying. “If I love it, I buy it,” she laughs. “Then I ask my Gen Z kids and their spouses—they’re trend-savvy and always have opinions! And my secret weapon? I give toy catalogs to my 4-year-old grandson. If he lights up over something, I know other kids will too. It’s really that simple.”
Whether passing through Hochatown on your next outdoor adventure or planning a weekend escape to the mountains, Hochatown Mountain Co. is a must-visit. It’s a place where shopping feels like part of the vacation—relaxed, refreshing, and filled with thoughtful touches that make you want to stay awhile. On Hochatime, of course.
Facts About Hochatown Mountain Co.
Opened: July 2023
Square Footage: 1,600 sq ft
Employees: 4
Fun Fact: Mary Beth started in an 800 sq ft space and expanded within a year. She bought a former carwash in the heart of Hochatown, tore it down, and built the current store—moving in on March 24th.
Website: www.hochatownmountainco.com
Top Brands:
Gifts & Accessories: Kendra Scott, Splendid Iris, Generation Bee (especially their honey), Dionis
Graphic Tees: A top seller
Toys: A carefully curated selection—kid tested, grandkid approved!