I just wanted to show you a neat little idea I brought back from Austin.
Whilst I was there, I was really bowled over by, not only the people's general warmth, openess, genuiness and honesty, but their commitment to supporting local, independent businesses.
On almost my last day, Kate and I went to South 1st to do a little vintage shopping. The shops were super sweet, actual houses that'd be renovated into stores. That wouldn't happen in a residential area in the UK. A) there wouldn't be the footfall. B) locals would contest planning permission!
Amelia's, South First, Austin
Anyway. I picked up this cool '
vintage around town guide'. It's really nice to see all the shops who could be seen as competitors get together to create something that supports one another. A simple idea, two sides of A4, a map of the city, numbered, and a blurb for each shop. Simples. I expect all the shops that are involved just chipped in a few pounds for the printing and someone nice did the designing. I want to bring this back to the UK.
In the cupcake shop, Sugar Mama's, they have a shoe hanger that you can put your business cards in and peg one on the front. See one you recognise? (Bottom right!)
And then how could I forget 'Lovely' who gave us a Margarita as we walked in the door?!
I wonder if they'd all read 'The Power of Nice'? Or maybe it's just all built in their bones?
Austin is definitely where I should be at... or is the grass just greener on the other side of the fence? There's only one way to find out, go for another visit!
Keep it crafty n kitsch and feel the LOVE!! What do you do to support your fellow independent designers? Share the LOVE!!
xoxo
