HELLO BRV FAM!
As you've hopefully heard by now- we're MOVING! It's been a quick decision but thoughtfully approached and confidently made.
WHY MOVE?
It's really hard to wrap our heads around leaving this beloved space that we've poured so much into... and so soon, at that. However- this new storefront will be easily accessible on foot for those who live downtown as well as those doing the shop circuit down the avenue. The isolation from the multi-faceted Avenue A landscape was a tough one to overcome. It's pretty incredible that we were able to accomplish so much- all through the love and encouragement this community has given us! Yes, the town was able to secure a grant to fix the pedestrian bridge connecting the island to downtown, but the timeline is long and our concept is simply a perfect marriage for the new space. There is limitless potential in this vibrant village and I know the work we've done in the former Housing Authority offices will be the perfect incubator for the next dreamer.
WHY THE FUNDRAISING?
With the tight turnaround and the unexpected opportunity, we had to take a chance! The last time we took a similar chance, we ended up with the community of supporters and friends that bloomed on those plywood floors.
We did most of the initial buildout and opening on our own. In another world, dimension, etc- we would have been able to get a traditional bank loan in time... but as the days and weeks and then months dragged on, and the conversations continued in circles, we had to quit the process and bootstrap the opening. We simply couldn't have done it without the generous help of friends in the form of labor, support and funds, too.
While it's really hard to ask for help, there is something magical about the idea of mutual aid. It reaffirms our (BRV's) responsibility to our community, our commitment to providing a safe, welcoming, inspiring and accessible space for a n y b o d y to find whatever thing brings the glow.
Funds raised will go towards some new, more permanent and long lasting fixturing, software, security deposits, lots of denim and overalls, and PAINT!
WHAT WE'RE OFFERING
AH, down to business now.
TWO PARTS
We'll be holding a raffle in store- featuring gift cards, vintage merch and other exciting temptations. The drawing will take place at our grand re-opening on Saturday, February 15th!
The second part is pretty exciting for me (Alex)- the custom art and handmade offerings!!
I'm a maker. I make, I bake, I sew and cut and draw and paint and stack. It would be my honor to execute a custom thing for you, dear supporter.
Please share this with your friends that have been to our idyllic little shop and share with friends who haven't gotten the chance yet! The more we invest in each other, the more this weird and wonderful little village grows.
