The Wild Olive
~ story and photos by Paige Langenderfer
A visit to The Wild Olive is like a trip around the world for your taste buds.
Located at 37 West Main Street, The Wild Olive provides a wide variety of the world’ s freshest, most premium Extra Virgin Olive Oil and Balsamic Vinegars.
Store owner Michelle Damrell is celebrating the store being a mainstay in Nashville for 10 years.
“ There was no store like it around here and it seemed like a great fit for the area,” Michelle said.“ Growing up, my parents introduced me to a variety of foods and flavors. I guess you could say I have always been somewhat of a“ foodie.’”
Michelle describes her mom, Carol, as“ Betty Crocker.”
“ My mom is an exceptional cook. She can cook anything and her food is always delicious,” Michelle said.“ She is the one I call if I have a question about cooking; she calls it‘ cooking by phone.’ I definitely got my love of cooking from my mom.”
Carol volunteers frequently at the store and is the official store decorator.
“ My mom is my best friend and biggest supporter,” Michelle said.
Michelle’ s dad, Ed, was her inspiration for offering adventurous flavors.
“ Dad loved cajun and creole. He was famous for his New Year’ s Day dinners,” she said.“ He liked taking us to hole-in-the-wall restaurants. When we would go on vacation, he would go to the library to research places for us to try. I get my love of seeking out unique foods and flavors from my dad.”
22 Our Brown County Nov./ Dec. 2022