pepperberry's: August 2010

8.25.2010

8.18.2010

I thought a quick update is in order. The inside of the new space is coming along nicely. The walls and partitions are down, the window treatments have been ordered, new product ordered, meetings with sales reps scheduled, lighting being considered, utilities switched, dumpster ordered, new sign for front yard in production, marketing for grand re-opening event in place, floor plans and cash wrap placement twirling around in my head.

I'm entering into the "hunt and find" stage of getting my new space ready, and it reminds me of the scavenger hunts I used to have for my kids and their friends! This was one of their favorite things to do and it was a highly anticipated event every year! Lots of memories were made and I loved making up the lists. I'm not kidding when I tell you that my list of "necessities" rivals the best scavenger hunt list out there! These are the items I will use to set the tone and vibe of the space. It starts with rusty chains {to suspend my very non traditional curtain rods?} and ends with old sign posts {my new card rack?} and is filled with lots of cool stuff in between! My garage is already resembling scrapyard heaven! I don't dare leave the movers unattended for fear they'll pass up some of my treasures thinking they don't belong in a retail shop! Oh...note to self: check to see if movers are up to date on their shots! Just kidding {kind of}!

8.10.2010

Fun Facts to know and share!

Since I don't want to show pictures of my new space, I'll just feed you some history facts about my very old building... and my connection to it which may just surprise you!

FACT: Did you know that the building was actually 2 freestanding buildings that have been attached?

FACT: Did you know that my current space was originally built in the early 1980's by Lucille Sommerfeld and was a bakery {all the baking was done in the basement.}?

FACT: Did you know that the original building that housed The Feed Mill was a carriage house for the house on the corner that is currently Rebecca's Salon?

FACT: Did you know that the original structure was owned by Mrs. Sommerfeld and housed her shop, "The Carriage Trade" which originally carried needlework supplies and gifty items on the first floor and clothing on the 2nd floor...all before The Feed Mill was born.

FACT: Did you know that I worked for Mrs. Sommerfeld at The Carriage Trade?! I was there when she opened The Feed Mill and built the bakery. I'm not sure who the brain child of The Feed Mill was, but I know Mrs. S. owned the space and Mrs. Glover was the talented cook/restaurateur and it was a huge success.

So you see, this old building and I go way back. Isn't it funny how I've come full circle in a structure that was re purposed for retail by a woman who wasn't afraid to take risks and had unlimited creativity! She was my retail role model. Not only do I know the bones of this building; I feel the spirit of the original retail entrepreneur, and it inspires me.