Shop local design at Shoppe Local

WHAT: Shoppe Local
WHERE: 813 50th St. W.
Mpls.

As the Twin Cities become more and more celebrated for their burgeoning local design scene, plenty of people are taking notice and itching to get involved. The owners of eclectic-chic gift shop franchise Mecca Patina are among them, as they opened their new all-local location, Shoppe Local, on Oct. 21.
According to buyer Ann Seehof, the focus of the store is to show “the range of what’s happening” in our fair cities, from food to fashion to home décor. “Having five [Patina] stores and so much merchandise, that’s something we haven’t been able to do as we’ve grown.”
Shoppe Local not only carries well-known giants like Minnetonka Moccasins (worn by Kate Moss) and the handbags of “Project Runway” alum Christopher Straub, but also clothing from edgy Calpurnia Peach , recycled, sustainable basics courtesy Sassy Knitwear and sophisticated daywear from Amanda Christine . The shop also sells CDs from local bands like Solid Gold.
Though the store has just recently opened, business has been good. “We opened very quietly; we don’t even have a sign,” says Seehof. “But everybody we’re carrying is telling their friends; it’s a built-in customer base.”
One jewelry designer featured at Shoppe Local is Natalie Lucas, a high school friend of Seehof’s. “I’ve been trying to get her into Patina for a long time,” Seehof says. Lucas’ eponymous jewelry line is made of recycled and vintage elements and each piece is one-of-a-kind.
“Ann asked if I would be interested in selling there, and I jumped at the chance after hearing about the shop’s concept. I think it’s fantastic that they exclusively sell local products from within the Midwest,” Lucas said.
Aimie Dukes of Ferociter jewelry says she’s selling a wide range at the store, including jewelry made from suede, feathers and rhinestones. She’s happy to be a part of such an endeavor. “They’re providing a lot of business for local designers with all the orders they’ve placed.”
Looks like Target is no longer the apex of local shopping.