(Preparing The Fields 1980-1990)
The Harvest Company Christian Bookstore was opened in 1980 in a 900 square foot location by Jane Burton, Elizabeth George and Laura Pratt, a mother and daughter team, committed to serving the local community. The mother-daughter team planted many seeds within the lives of customers within the Hampton Roads area. After completing 10 years of strong dedicated servic
e to the community, Jane Burton, Elizabeth George and Laura Pratt prayerfully decided to place the store up for sale. To their surprise, God had already ordained the next owner of The Harvest Company Christian Bookstore. (Tending the Fields 1980-2011)
Scottie Velvin, a long time customer of the bookstore, was saddened to hear of the possibility of the closing bookstore. Velvin found The Harvest Company Christian Bookstore to be a place of hope in a chaotic world. Saddened by the idea of possibly losing such a ministry that meant so much to her, as well as other customers, she began discussing the idea of owning the bookstore with her husband, Lawrence Velvin. After speaking with Jane Burton, it was evident that the Velvin’s were called to purchase and own The Harvest Company Christian Bookstore. This husband and wife team had no prior bookstore experience, but was determined to depend on God’s grace and provision. During the years of their ownership the business expanded from a 900 square feet location into 2000 square feet location, soon following a second 5000 square feet location. After 20 years of serving the local community and ministries, Lawrence and Scottie Velvin were forced to close the physical store, in January of 2011, due to economic challenges, technological advancements and industry changes. As a result, other Christian bookstores began to close as well, leaving a huge void within the Christian community. (Year of the Harvest 2012-Present)
Jessica Reid, a former customer and employee of the store, was truly touched by the sudden closing of The Harvest Company. Harvest Company served as the cornerstone to many of her childhood and young adult memories. In 2012, it was laid upon her heart to rebrand and relaunch the legacy of The Harvest Company Christian Bookstore, as HARCO Bookstore (short term for The Harvest Company Christian Bookstore). After much prayer, planning and preparation, Lawrence and Scottie Velvin granted their blessing and ownership of Harvest Company’s 30 year old brand and legacy to Ms. Reid. “Harvest Company Christian Bookstore has always been such a blessing to the Hampton Roads Community, a store that has always been committed to furthering the Gospel of Jesus Christ throughout the outer most parts of the world. "I am truly honored, blessed and overwhelmed by the opportunity to continue The Harvest Company Christian Bookstore's legacy!" At HARCO Bookstore (The Harvest Company Christian Bookstore) our mission will continue to be the Great Commission!
