Yorkton's downtown businesses are stepping up in support of each other to boost interest in downtown shopping and atmosphere.
Last Thursday the Vintage Vault, located on Second Street off Broadway, in the city, announced an inaugural event called Rediscover Downtown which will feature local performers as well as other activities intended to get people out to explore the downtown core.
Terri Pedersen from the Vintage Vault says the project, Rediscover Downtown, will be ongoing without an end date. "Our Thursday night initiative is meant to carry through the summer season and support other events organized by our YBID (Yorkton Business Improvement District). This holiday season we have already discussed a Winter Wonderland for the month of December so stay tuned for a magical holiday shopping experience this year."
Initially, says Pedersen, "we have started with Thursdays, but watch for events on other days too as we gain momentum. Like our Facebook page to stay connected."
To date, 14 businesses in a one block radius - 2nd Ave between Broadway and Smith, Broadway between 2nd and 3rd and 3rd Ave between Broadway and Smith - have jumped on board and all are invited to get in on the action.
The ultimate goal says Pedersen, is to bring more vibrancy to the downtown core and to promote the amazing businesses in the area.
"Also, to give individuals a place to explore and discover."
Businesses having been popping up more and more frequently, giving people reason to explore and enjoy Yorkton's downtown.
The Vintage Vault opened on October 26, 2013.
"Situated in Yorkton's downtown," Pedersen says, we offer women's luxury fashion at a fraction of the cost by reducing, reusing and recycling. Designer items are collected at end of season sales from stores in New York and Philadelphia, vintage items are shipped from Miami and Paris but the majority of items are consigned by discerning clientele who want to recycle their wardrobe. Our brands include Louis Vuitton, Prada, Dior, Burberry, Gucci, Louboutin and many more.
"Our philosophy holds that all women are beautiful and we express our beauty in a variety of ways. Not only do we offer a place to shop and recycle your wardrobe but we are also a social outing and an affirmation of one's inner self. The Vintage Vault offers a high-end shopping experience with the service of a couture shop. We have a commitment to impeccable customer service, a commitment to quality and a commitment to the environment. Find us on Facebook at yorktonvintagevault, on Instagram or visit our ebay store at V V Fashion and Accessories."
When asked if she thought it was important local businesses support each other and work together to strengthen the downtown business core Pederson's response was, "Absolutely! One of the first things I noticed in the months building and stocking the store, was how supportive other businesses in the area were. My downtown team is a group of talented, intelligent, vibrant and extremely positive individuals. We are already operating as a synchronous family, so we want to invite our clients to experience that too."
Support from the community is also very important if we as residents want to continue to see growth and the addition of new services.
"The key to getting really interesting business to thrive in Yorkton is by supporting and contributing to both our local economy but also to the energy in our downtown core. For example, Emily bravely played her guitar and sang for an hour in sub zero temps this Thursday - now that's dedication to local culture!"
Stay tuned for more on the downtown core and in your travels be sure to get out and check it out, there is much to offer!
