May’s Place sign: “That sign is originally from my great-great-grandfather’s general store and bar in Southern California,” says Andy. “When we found it, it was in the bed of an old ’50s pickup that my father has. The bed rotted out, so he just took that sign and put it face-down to repair the hole.”
Source of inventory: “Everywhere and anywhere,” says Andy. “There’s no rhyme or reason,” adds Katie. Sometimes it’s a flea market; other times it’s a man with a trailer in the desert. “You meet all kinds of characters,” Andy says.
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Shelf: “The part with the dividers already existed,” Katie says. “Andy built out the rest and painted it. We took heavy inspiration from his great-great-grandfather’s store and the heritage.”
Banner: To showcase the shop’s philosophy, the duo worked with local retailer Golden Gems to create a custom “Be Green, Buy Vintage” banner. They also print it on vintage tees.
Attire: Katie sports a Western string tie from Lonesome Traveler, a men’s accessories line. Andy’s green button-up is a May’s Place find.
Location “Since we’re in such a residential area, we’ve built a rapport with the people who are just out walking their dogs and wander in,” Katie says of the shop’s location on Ivanhoe Avenue. “There’s an overall want to see this business strip up and running again. There are a couple little bars and restaurants, but I think people are excited to have retail.”
