A group of inspired women, part of a Women's Initiative for Self Employment Program, has opened fledgling businesses, called "pop-up stores", in empty store fronts in Oakland and nurtured them far enough along to sign leases in these tough economic times.
In the lobby of the Paramount Theater where community groups manned stalls before the Jan. 19 tribute to Martin Luther King Jr, one flyer promoted several new stores in the Downtown and Uptown that began as "pop-ups" and now have become successful enough to sign leases.
There are so many positive initiatives to highlight here - uptown and downtown - and I hope to put a spotlight (or flashlight) on some of it to spread the word.
Shoe Groupie Boutique at 1621 Broadway bills itself as a hub for free thinkers, creativity and footwear - where founders Dion Bullock and Candice Littlefield espouse a belief in self-expression through footwear. Check out this feature about them in Oakland Local.
Betti Ono Gallery - "pop-up goes permanent" - has reopened its flagship art gallery at 1427 Broadway with support from local artists, residents and property owner Andrew Brog. Anyka Barber, gallery director and founder, says opening a business in Oakland "has been about showing what is possible, rolling up our sleeves and doing the work to help this city become a place where we can all thrive."
OwlnWood at 45 Grand Avenue is the brainchild of owner Rachel Konte to offer international brands, vintage products and local design influenced by Rachel's Afro-Scandinavian heritage. Stop by, shop local and spread the word!
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