WRITER | CANDIE CONAT
PHOTOS | WHITE BIRCH OUTFITTERS

It has been a whirlwind year for husband-and-wife team Casey and Michelle Buckleitner, who opened White Birch Outfitters in downtown Gaylord in May. From the beginning, the Buckleitners realized that in today’s world, a brick and mortar retail business has to be more and offer more to their customers than a simple “pop in and buy something” store if it’s going to be around for the long haul.

With that in mind, they created White Birch Outfitters to be an experience for their customers. Not only can customers visit the store to shop for their outdoor adventures, but they can also reserve space in the organized activities offered by White Birch. At the same time, they can examine an impressive collection of heritage photographs and historical articles and stories that testify to the rich natural history of Northern Michigan. The Buckleitners have been delighted to find the community of Gaylord and its visitors to be warm and welcoming.

White Birch Outfitters is building goodwill with locals and out-of-town visitors alike through their organized group bike rides and hiking trips. This winter, they are adding snowshoe hikes and downhill ski trips to some amazing trails and resorts across the area. The social aspect of it makes it a great way for people to experience new destinations and activities as well as meet new people.

With an inventory that includes versatile sling bags from Kavu, outdoor gear for travel and trails from Prana, top-of-the-line outerwear from Kuhl, adaptable outdoor clothing lines from Tentree, and equipment to go along with your activity, White Birch Outfitters offers something for outdoor explorers of all ages and skill levels. To keep things interesting, customers will also find a variety of home goods from the most skilled artisans around the region.

For Casey and Michelle Buckleitner, White Birch Outfitters is their way of helping people connect with nature.

 

White Birch Outfitters  118 E. Main Street, Gaylord MI 49735 l (989) 732-2223 l WhiteBirchOutfitters.com