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In Conversation with Jenny // The Makehouse
"The Makehouse is not just a shop. It's a place where magic and learning happens. We don't just sell sewing supplies, we are mentors that can help with whatever stage you're at on your sewing journey. Some people come in just for ideas, others need more hand-holding to plan their first project. We are also sewing cheerleaders. In case you don't think you can do it — we know you can!"
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In Conversation with Melodie // Elate Cosmetics
"My strategy from day one has been to build a safe space. A community where people feel like they belong, with the mandate that beauty is for everyone. We have always used what we call 'role models' in our campaigns, humans that you would maybe have never seen in a makeup photo shoot before because of the preconceived notion of who beauty is for. The other thing that makes us stand out online is our honesty. We are always very forthcoming with info about our successes and failures, and we ask our community to shape the future of our company."
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In Conversation with Kari // Tulipe Noire Clothing
"I have always been a lover of art. My late mother was an artist and through her I met many wonderful artists and was raised to appreciate the arts in general. I minored in Art History and I have an astute appreciation for how important art is in our culture. I intend to continue to represent artists in my store. I think it adds something very special to the environment and helps the artists themselves."
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In Conversation with Aleisha // Footloose Shoes
"I would say running your shop is twice as much work as you would ever expect. You have to think of so many things that you wouldn't imagine. Like who cleans the bathroom? Making sure you always have tape — it’s the little things! But owning a shop is hard work and takes a lot of time and commitment, so be prepared to give up a lot of personal time for the business. In the end, if you love it, it can be worth it, but it's a tougher go with so much online ... and now with Covid, it can really be challenging."
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In Conversation with Jordan // Lucky Cat Barber Collective
"All I wanted to do was be wild and free with the clipper. I wanted to do weird asymmetrical styles that involved breaking the rules, and so after working in a salon for a while, I took the leap and applied at Victory Barber, where I grew into the barber I am today. It was the push I needed to be able to explore every new angle with my scissors and clippers. "