Revival Rack: A Boutique with Heart and Hustle in Hope, Arkansas

In the heart of Hope, Arkansas, a new business is breathing life into the local retail scene with a blend of entrepreneurial grit and community compassion. Revival Rack, co-owned by Suzanne Jones and Elizabeth Sargent, is more than just a store; it’s a mission-driven marketplace where affordability meets generosity.

Located at 313 E 2nd Street, Revival Rack officially opened its doors three months ago with a ribbon-cutting ceremony hosted by the Hope/Hempstead County Chamber of Commerce. The event drew local leaders, including Mayor Don Still, who praised the store’s arrival as a “blessing to the community.”

Jones, a lifelong resident of Hope and member of Calvary Baptist Church, and Sargent, who attends First Baptist, bring a shared background in medical billing and a passion for helping others to their new venture.

Their journey began online, selling merchandise through Amazon and eBay, a practice they continue today. But the storefront offers something deeper: connection. “We wanted to meet the people we serve,” Jones said. “Putting faces to the bargain hunters makes it personal.” Revival Rack offers a curated mix of 60% pre-loved and 40% new merchandise, ranging from clothing and shoes to pottery and jewelry.

The store’s atmosphere is intentionally welcoming, with plans for a “Loyalty Royalty” punch card system and even personal shopping services for regulars. But what truly sets Revival Rack apart is its community-first philosophy. Jones and Sargent are committed to helping families in need, especially single and low-income mothers, by offering affordable clothing, backpacks for school, and deep discounts when budgets are tight. One mother, for example, was able to purchase a week’s worth of school clothes for her child thanks to a generous price reduction. “We want to run a successful business that has a heart,” said Sargent. “Helping people who live paycheck to paycheck is part of our mission.”

Their sourcing strategy is equally thoughtful. They accept donations, buy from auctions and garage sales, and often purchase entire inventories to ease the burden on sellers. This not only keeps Revival Rack stocked with unique finds but also supports others in the community.

Sargent, who has lived in North Dakota, Michigan, Washington State, and Arizona, now calls Hope home. Her children, Hayden and Michael, live in Spokane, Washington, and were recently in the possible path of forest fires. Thankfully, the fires shifted direction, sparing their area. Jones, meanwhile, carries a personal story of resilience. Her daughter passed away due to COVID-19 complications, leaving behind two children, Elijah (4) and Carter (5, soon to be 6), now lovingly cared for by Jones and her husband.

As members of the Hope/Hempstead Chamber of Commerce, Jones and Sargent are not just building a business; they’re building a legacy of service, compassion, and community spirit. For those in Hope and beyond, Revival Rack isn’t just a place to shop, it’s a place to belong.