Our Journey to Clayton: From Big City Chaos to Mountain Serenity
There’s something magical about the first time you visit Clayton, Georgia. For us, it was love at first sight. Nestled in the heart of Rabun County, this charming town became the escape we never knew we needed. Today, we call it home and proudly share its beauty through Clayton Mountain Co. Here’s the story of how we got here and the inspiration behind our business.
Escaping the Chaos of Atlanta
Life in Atlanta is fast-paced, busy, and—let’s face it—a little chaotic. The noise, the traffic, the endless hustle…it was all starting to wear us down. Like many Atlantans, we began looking for a getaway. We craved fresh air, quiet nights, and a sense of peace.
Our search led us to Clayton, tucked away in the scenic Northeast Georgia mountains. What started as a handful of weekend trips turned into a life-changing discovery. Every visit felt like hitting the reset button, and we always left with a lingering question: Why go back?
Falling in Love with Clayton
Whether it was exploring Black Rock Mountain State Park, kayaking along the peaceful waters of Lake Burton, or simply walking down Main Street, Clayton’s charm completely captivated us.
The community here is unlike anything we’d experienced—a mix of locals and visitors, all sharing a deep appreciation for the mountains and the slower pace of life. Staying in cozy Airbnbs and charming inns like the Lake Rabun Hotel made us feel like we belonged here.
The Leap: Moving on a Whim
Sometimes, life nudges you toward the unexpected. After one particularly memorable weekend, we decided to take the leap. Within weeks, we packed up our home in Atlanta and moved to Clayton. It was a whirlwind decision, but one that immediately felt right.
Settling into life in Rabun County was like a breath of fresh air—literally. Morning coffee on the porch with mist rolling through the mountains, evenings spent exploring local restaurants like Fortify Kitchen & Bar, and weekends hiking trails like Tallulah Gorge State Park quickly became our new normal.
Clayton Mountain Co.: Inspired by Nature
As we soaked in the beauty of our new surroundings, an idea began to take shape. We wanted to share the essence of this special place with others, especially those who visited and fell in love with Clayton just like we had.
That’s how Clayton Mountain Co. was born. Our mission is simple: to capture the spirit of Northeast Georgia through original designs on hoodies, t-shirts, and homewares. Each design is inspired by the mountains, lakes, and forests that surround us.
Building a Business That Reflects Clayton
Starting a business in Clayton has been an adventure. We’ve had the opportunity to collaborate with talented local artists, meet other small business owners, and immerse ourselves in the supportive, tight-knit community here.
We’re especially proud of our commitment to adding fresh designs every week. Whether it’s a bold graphic of Lake Burton or a playful nod to the area’s vibrant foliage, we aim to create something for everyone who loves this region.
Plan Your Visit to Clayton
If you’ve never been to Clayton or Rabun County, you’re missing out! Here are a few resources to help you plan your visit:
- Explore Rabun: A great resource for events, attractions, and lodging in Rabun County.
- Rabun County Chamber of Commerce: Find local businesses, events, and visitor guides.
- Visit Clayton, GA: Tips on where to stay, eat, and explore during your trip.
A Souvenir That Lasts
Whether you’re a visitor passing through or a local who calls this place home, Clayton Mountain Co. offers a way to keep the magic of Northeast Georgia with you. Our designs are more than just products—they’re a celebration of everything we love about this region.
We’re so grateful for the opportunity to live, work, and create in this incredible community. Thank you for being part of our journey. We hope to see you out on the trails, in town, or perhaps browsing our latest designs.
Feel free to reach out, share your Clayton story, or stop by our online store to see what’s new. Here’s to the mountains that inspire us all!
Ready to explore our designs? Visit Clayton Mountain Co. and bring a piece of Northeast Georgia home with you.