Today we’d like to introduce you to Kirsten Sundell.
Hi Kirsten, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I started The Red Apron in December of 2011. I wanted to have a little vintage/antique store in the Northland that was open one weekend a month. 14 years later our loyal customers have become friends. We love seeing them each month and hearing how they are doing.
We have grown to include gift items and some new home decor, but you will feel nostalgic as you enter our store and see vintage items that you grew up with in your home or at Grandma’s house!
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
As with most businesses, the years surrounding Covid were tough and we were contemplating closing. Our loyal customers stuck with us, and we stayed open, hoping for a turn around. I am happy to report that we are finally back on track and excited to see what the future holds.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I was a teacher by trade, blessed to spend some time as a stay at home Mom, after I had my children. When they were in school, I wanted to do something flexible to stay as involved with my children as possible. Since I was a little girl I have loved decorating. My child hood home was filled with antiques passed down from family members I loved the idea of being open once a month, filling the store with new treasures, each sale. Our 17 vendors scour the Kansas City area for beautiful items to make your home one of a kind. We take all the leg work out for our customers and bring it all to one spot! Our booths are fresh each sale, not stale with the same items month after month. This makes it an exciting adventure each time you come out!
Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
I reached out to other businesses like mine and asked for advice and took note of how they did business. It is good to have like minded people to bounce ideas off of, but also to point out things that you could do better.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.theredapron.net
- Instagram: @redapronliberty
- Facebook: The Red Apron ~ Liberty, Missouri
