GRAND HAVEN, Mich. — It doesn't take long to figure out Leiko Bergers, a business owner and self-proclaimed "joyologist," is a kind soul.
Last week, 13 ON YOUR SIDE crew members walked past her downtown store while covering Visit Grand Haven's Bones About Town event. She flagged us down, not knowing at the time that we were members of the media, and invited us in.
A sticker on the outside of Mirthy urges customers to "Please be mindful of the energy you bring into this space," and that's something Bergers is very serious about. In fact, she said "good vibes" are what her store sells.
If that seems a little abstract, the sign outside indicates they sell rocks, clothing, accessories and candles, among other things. But Bergers said her shop is about more than making a sale.
"It's not about a price tag. It's all about taking a moment of slowing down. Think about it. When you were a kid and you looked at rocks, everyone loves rocks. Rocks are speaking to us in some crazy, phenomenal way. Just come and see what's pretty and see what makes your heart happy," she said.
Berger is originally from Florida, but her husband is from Grand Haven. She's been coming to Coast Guard City, USA for 15 years and she said it feels like her home away from home.
That's why she was so passionate about bringing her store to the lakeshore.
"I just felt the urge. I felt like Grand Haven needed it," she said.
If you'd like to check out Mirthy, they're open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. On Sunday, they'll host private events. They're located at the corner of Washington Avenue and 2nd Street.
