By: Hunter Mylek
Matthew Lehman and Randi Mikesell
Q: Can you tell us a little bit about yourselves and The August Connection?
A: We are a brick-and-mortar vintage shop located just south of the heart of Grand Rapids. We focus on clothing and accessories for all ages and sizes. We started collecting vintage during the pandemic and aspired to start an online selling platform but ended up really enjoying the in-person aspect of selling vintage after vending at a local vintage market. We really love the story behind the clothing we sell and enjoy finding these items in new homes as well as helping to keep items out of landfills. We try to stay true to what we enjoy collecting and on-trend with the current styles.
Q: What makes it unique?
A: We sell vintage clothing for all ages, kids-adult. The way we source allows us to keep our prices at an economical price point while maintaining the value of vintage. We like to create a comfortable and welcoming space that allows for the expression of individuality. We consistently bring new items into the shop (daily!) and are always moving things around based on current trends. We hope everyone who purchases something walks away feeling like they made a great purchase and that the items they bought are what they want and need.
Q: How did you become interested in collecting vintage pieces, have you always had a knack for fashion?
A: We have always enjoyed fashion and have really started to focus on the styles and eras we enjoy the most. Style is something that is always changing and evolving as you grow and change. I (Randi) personally love selling kids vintage because it allows children to participate in a shopping experience that typically leaves them out. By allowing children to choose their own style and find what makes them feel good, we are instilling confidence and that is priceless. As for adult vintage, we both have enjoyed the process of finding unique styles from all eras that mirror the ever-evolving fashion trends.
Q: What are the benefits of shopping vintage?
A: Sustainability and the ability to create your own unique style (among so many others!)
Q: Did you always see yourselves becoming entrepreneurs and what important lessons did you learn along the way?
A: I (Randi) have always wanted to work for myself and have loved fashion for as long as I can remember. This opportunity came at a perfect time, and we jumped in. I would say that I have learned more than we could imagine and am continuing to learn more each day. When owning a business it’s vital to remember that the connections you make with the community will allow everyone a better opportunity to succeed.
Q: What advice do you have for aspiring entrepreneurs?
A: Find your passion and make sure it’s your passion before jumping into it. I can’t imagine opening a vintage shop and not enjoying what I am surrounding myself with. Talk to the community around your business, make those connections, and stand out from the crowd. Sometimes those scary risks pay off and sometimes it’s a valuable lesson. Get a mentor- someone you can trust that has your best interest in mind. It’s good to have a perspective from other angles. Plan and plan but don’t expect perfection as you will never feel like you are succeeding if you aren’t able to meet your own expectations. It’s the little wins that make it all worth it.
To learn more about The August Connection, follow them on Instagram today!
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