Inspiring Conversations with Erica Qualy of Tako’s Treasures

Today we’d like to introduce you to Erica Qualy

Hi Erica, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I started Tako’s Treasures after leaving art school in 2012. At first it was just second hand goods, basically an on-going garage sale in my back yard with everything being name your own price. Over the years my taste became more refined and I started to deal in only vintage, with the exception of more unique or one of a kind modern pieces. Currently I’m working and vending at a fabulous vintage store here in town called Blue Suede Vintage and working towards opening up my own second-hand co-op with my life and business partner!

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Definitely not! LOL
But it’s the bumps along the way that make the journey interesting, right? Otherwise how would we grow?
Some struggles that come to mind are trying to find my own little place in the community. I try so hard to do right by myself and right by my community so it can really get under my skin when people get overly competitive- I’ve had to deal with some nightmare experiences at estate sales with folks getting rowdy, I’ve had someone literally yank an item out of my hand! The (Goodwill) bins can get wild, too, vintage may clean up nice but the sourcing is not always for the faint of heart! And then there’s the usual regrets here and there of not doing the proper research on items and selling them for wayyyy less than market value. Navigating taxes and other legal red tape as a small business owner can be scary. I also struggle with making my own schedule sometimes, it can be bittersweet dividing up your time when your passion is also your source of income. But overall, starting my own business is the best thing that’s ever happened to me! My hope is that everyone is able to invest in themselves and do the things they love for a living!

Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Tako’s Treasures?
Right now Tako’s Treasures is a vintage shop located in Memphis, Tennessee. We focus on recycling and reviving vintage clothing, accessories, and home decor. At Tako’s we strive to keep our prices fair and accessible, offering trade and payment options on most items. We specialize in 60s and 70s clothing but love everything from 1900- 2000!
For this coming year, we are working on opening up a second-hand co-op in town!

Can you talk to us a bit about happiness and what makes you happy?
It makes me happy when I’m able to save clothes from the dumpter, and turn someone’s trash into treasure. It makes me happy to unite an old piece of clothing with a new owner. It makes me happy to know I’m helping reduce used clothing piling up in landfills. It makes me happy to mend, clean, and pass on quality made garments to the next generation. Cotton, silk, and linen make me happy! 🙂

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.takostreasures.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/takostreasures_vintage/
• Other: https://substack.com/@takostreasuresvintage