Talk to All Star Vintage owners Dese and Richard and one thing is made abundantly clear: a global pandemic isn’t going to stop them from building community around clothing.
While their throwback troop had to adapt to the universal restrictions of COVID-19, they never faltered. Through sheer heart, willingness to hand deliver purchases to their loyal customers, and a whole lot of hustle, their shop’s base has actually grown in spite of the obstacles.
So, it’s no surprise that the group known for rallying their friends and fellow thrift hustlers to put on some epic conventions has found a way to make it happen again, despite the circumstances.
This time, it’s outdoors and they’re hoping to safely bring a little love and light to Lincoln District.
This Sunday, Sept. 6 from 11 AM-3 PM, they’ll host vendors from all over the Pacific NW making for a good old-fashioned throwback yard sale at the corners of South 38th St. & Park Avenue. All vintage freaks are welcome, hagglers encouraged, and deals will be abundant at what could only be described as an open-air vintage lover’s heaven.
Richard and Dese see it not only as an opportunity for the community to cop some sweet throwback gear, but a chance to support local thrift vendors (who usually depend on big gatherings) in a smaller, more intimate setting.
The event is also a great opportunity to get takeout from some of Lincoln’s incredible restaurants like Vien Dong or Dragon’s Crawfish.
The two enthusiastic owners aren’t shy in talking about their love for the historic neighborhood All Star Vintage calls home, proudly stating that the diverse neighborhood’s elder statesman have taught them a thing or two about business. They continue to champion for the well-being of the growing district, and soon they’ll be adding another little gem to the block.
Casita, a converted 1913 craftsman home just around the corner from All Star Vintage will be a new retail shop/shoot for the moon project that expands on what they’ve already started. A home for food, retail, community space, arts, music, and more, the new space has been an ongoing project for the group, allowing them to build toward the brighter days to come. They’ve even got local artist and musician Perry Paints working on decorating the place.
https://twitter.com/PerryPorter/status/1297689679039328257
In a time when there would be reason to bunker down and hang on for dear life, it’s refreshing to see pioneers in Tacoma continuing to dream big. It’s Defiant as all get out, and we’re thrilled they continue to invest in this city.
We’ll see you at the sale on Sunday, early birds. Remember to wear your masks.
Until then?
Keep It Defiant, Tacoma.
March 16, 2023