Lisa’s More & More combines owner’s interests, goals

by Benita Fuzzell
A large group of family, friends and Chamber members were on hand for last week’s Ribbon Cutting for Lisa’s More & More. (Photo by Benita Fuzzell) A large group of family, friends and Chamber members were on hand for last week’s Ribbon Cutting for Lisa’s More & More. (Photo by Benita Fuzzell)

“I had said before, in my life, I would like to have a hair salon, a convenience store or a restaurant. I ended up with all three at the same time,” said Lisa Shields, owner of Lisa’s More & More, located between South Fulton and Martin, Tenn., at 2636 Hwy. 45E.

Shields had been open for business since April of 2020, but just last week, she celebrated her success so far, with a ribbon cutting ceremony, sponsored by the Twin Cities Chamber of Commerce.

Shields grew up in South Fulton, and at first thought she might like to pursue work in child care. That was put on hold, and she then began work at Letica, followed by employment at Pilgrim’s Pride in Hickory, Ky. She had been there for 12 years, and while she owns and operates her own business, she still continues to hold down a 40-hour-a-week job there.

She recalled one day, she and her fiance, Allen Stephens went for a drive, and noticed the building, formerly known as “Joker Joe’s” fireworks, was vacant, and had not been occupied in five to six year.
After a discussion which included the couple agreeing to put God first, they decided to open their own business there.

“We petitioned God, about it, and as my fiance said, if God’s not in it, it’s not going to happen anyway. So that’s what we did,” Shields said.

Sadly, Stephens passed away in November of 2020, unexpectedly. Shields said she often feels his encouragement in continuing the business the two started together.

Driving into the parking lot of the business, the aroma greets those exiting their vehicles, even before the site of the grills and smokers, which anchor the outdoor seating area.

Fish plates, brisket plates, rib and chicken plates, hamburgers, hot dogs, a variety of side dishes and desserts are on the menu, with some unexpected surprises likely to be available as well, depending on the day.

If it’s not time for lunch or dinner, and it’s grocery items needed, Lisa’s More & More has that covered, too, as well as household items, cleaning supplies, small applicances, decor, bedding, lamps, tables and chairs. Hair care products and wigs, men’s women’s and children’s clothing items and shoes are also in stock.

The store carries cigarettes, beer and lottery tickets.

While Shields carries the load of her business, she also is assisted by four other employees.

Lisa’s More & More is open Monday-Wednesday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Thursday-Saturday, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.; and Sundays, 1-6 p.m. The telephone number is 731-223-1069.