Amanda and Matthew Crump have turned a hobby into a full-fledged business – The Hive, a boutique offering goods ranging from “unique” clothes to small gifts.

But their main goal for the business?

“Our main goal,” Amanda said, “is we wanted to make sure we are a light for the community to share the love of Jesus with everybody – even if nobody bought anything.”

Her dream became a reality on Nov.18 when The Hive opened at Buford Crossroads. The bright yellow store with string lights lining the roof now brings the new light the couple hoped for into the community.

In 2013, Amanda started making ornaments and wreaths – eventually focusing on designing shirts. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the business began to take off – causing the pair to use larger spaces to store their inventory.

Along with selling apparel at football games, the couple began using Facebook to sell their creations. “I would post the designs,” Amanda said, “then tell people to message us to order.”

As time went on, the couple realized their business was taking off. During the 2022-23 football season, the pair sold out their entire inventory on opening night. This “sold-out” moment made the pair realize they needed a store. “Opening a store,” Amanda said, “was always what I wanted to do.”

The Hive sells apparel for everyone, including an outdoor line aimed towards men. The boutique is primarily based on Christian faith.

Along with their faith focus, the pair also creates sports apparel as a way to give back to the community they’re from. “Once we started selling sports apparel,” Amanda Crump said, “we decided to give back a percentage of our sales to the school’s athletic program.”

Buford High’s athletic director Eric Funderburk believes in supporting The Hive. “It’s very important to support our local businesses in this small community,” Funderburk said, “especially ones that give back to our programs.”

The couple hope for the continued success at The Hive, but success is not the most important issue for them. “We want to support our family and eventually retire,” Matthew said, “but that’s not really the goal. Our whole purpose is being a light. That’s why we have the house covered in lights. We’re probably going to leave them up all year long.”

The Hive owners know just what it takes to own a small business – especially one in a small community. “We are in the process of building relationships