Today we’d like to introduce you to Tristen Gaspadarek.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
Tristen here, my sister Alise and I are co-founders of Anaconda Vintage.
My love for thrifting & vintage clothing has followed me throughout the years. Over a decade ago, I was on the road for music and needed to find amazing show clothing on a shoestring budget. So, I would stop at small vintage, antique & thrift stores across the US and collect one-of-a-kind pieces. After years & years of doing this, I had an amazing collection of clothing gathered in my basement.
Like a lot of other small businesses, a basement’s collection quickly turned into a side hustle and then into a thriving local business.
Back in 2018, my sister and I decided to take my huge collection, and her online vintage store collection and put them to use. We started on a business plan and quickly dreamt of a collaborative space where the most amazing collectors from East Nashville could sell under one roof. This business would provide our community a one-stop-shop with tons of everyday items: T-shirts, jeans, blouses, AND one-of-a-kind showpieces.
One of the most important things we believe is that inclusivity is key. We try and provide vintage at all price points, all sizes & tons of styles. And so with all of these ideas, Anaconda Vintage was born.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
COVID was the biggest obstacle we had to overcome but with our amazing crew & our loving community, we weathered the storm together. We feel very grateful to have survived.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
Let’s be honest, it’s a lot of curating, doing laundry, and tagging items!
Sometimes it can be monotonous work but it is all worth it in the end. We are helping perpetuate the ‘reuse economy’ – all while helping our customers find their voice through individual expression & style. When you shop with us, you are building a highly unique wardrobe that is unlike anyone else’s.
Is there something surprising that you feel even people who know you might not know about?
When people shop Anaconda they are supporting a business-led by women. In addition to two female owners, 90% of our vendors are strong, brilliant, all inspiring females who curate and sell their style to the world.
Contact Info:
- Email: anacondavintage@gmail.com
- Website: www.anacondavintage.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anacondavintage/
