“You have to plant the seed long before you see a tree.”
Well friends, I am embarking on a brick-and-mortar pop-up shop. Through a series of circumstances and affiliations, I find myself with a blank store-front space with which to fill with all the things I tout so much in writing.
The idea sprung from some friends who own a building in Ybor City, with empty ground-floor space. They plan to open up a store of their own in the next twelve months, but in the mean time, they said “do whatever you want; have fun!”
I’ve fantasized about having a store of my own. Since I love fashion and products, but don’t like traditional models of retail, it feels right to forge my own, and (potentially) raise the profile of what people expect out of Tampa, which isn’t usually much.
It’s an immense opportunity and also really scary.
The main products will be:
- Pre-owned clothing and accessories from CoDesignment, the online consignment store for urban males, started a year ago. As it turns out, inventorying and photographing over 100 pieces is tedious.
- Bow-ties, locally made with both fabric and wood, from Ella Bing.
- Used vinyl records from the 1970s and 1980s of that era’s greatest acts, via Vinyl Lover.
- Sweet treats and samples from Artisan Crafted Edibles by Mark Brokaw, a local pastry chef and caterer specializing in delicate confections and complex theme cakes.
It shall be called “1901,” after the street number.
So far, I’ve pinned a bunch of ideas for the space, but yet to borrow or buy any furniture or props. It is a great store-front, formerly used as a conference room.
What do you think? I would love any ideas you all have, or gems of wisdom for dressing it. Window displays? Lighting? Eccentricities?
No suggestion will go unconsidered.
I will update once more details are resolved.
2 comments
LOVE love the idea! Alex English, Remarqed & Pop-up Pop are the perfect combo. If there’s any way my experience in owning 5 retail stores can benefit you know I’m an open book and eager to share.
Aw thanks so much Rob! I will definitely have questions. Still in the discovery phase for now. You’ll have to come to the opening party – Friday August 8th. Hope you’re around!