Who is the coolest customer you’ve ever had?
"The best part of my job is that I get to meet so many cool people. How do you narrow it down to one? I think that the opportunity for me to meet like-minded people is greater because my business has a specific 'green and responsibly-made' mission behind it. It creates a natural setting for discussions about environmental, social, and human rights issues. I have met so many wonderful and enlightened individuals and that fuels my passions and inspires me more! Oddly, however, there were a few weeks where an inordinate number of psychics came into the shop. Now that makes you pause and ask what the universe is trying to tell you!"

Where do you love to shop in Chicago?
"I am huge supporter of shopping local, meaning right in the neighborhood where my shop is. Supporting the Lakeview community and other businesses on the street is so very important to me. And what don’t we have on Southport? My favorites include Stella Blue Designs, Mint Julep, Dogaholics, M2 & M4 Men, and Persona. Outside the hood my favorite spots include some vintage and antique haunts and a variety of thrift stores throughout the city. Oh and a true Chicago favorite…who doesn’t find something they love every time at Art Effect on Armitage."


Photographed by Heather Talbert