Today we’re excited to introduce you to Elisabeth Cuttino-Vereen. Elisabeth is a Vintage Conneseiur & Business Owner and is also a content partner. Content partners help Voyage in so many ways from spreading the word about the work that we do, sponsoring our mission and collaborating with us on content like this. Check out our conversation with Elisabeth below.
Hi Elisabeth, so great to have you join us again. For folks who might have missed our earlier conversations, can you please take a minute to briefly introduce yourself?
As a child, I always had a passion for fashion. Till this day, my parents reminisce of nights where they would have to chase me around the house; in order to get me ready for bed. Why, you may ask? I would have layers of sparkly and mismatched costumes on. They were not coming off, for I was getting ready for tea. In the end, no matter what time of day; I was drawn to imagination and I’m so grateful my parents allowed me to express myself creatively with clothing and accessories. Fast forward to my 31 year old self, I still take pleasure in dressing up. Like B. Jones Style, I believe in the motto “Always Play Dress Up” and with that being said, I get to do so when my clients come into my little vintage shop.
When did you decide to open up a physical location?
I started selling vintage in 2008 and the people I was either selling for or selling to, had a storefront. Admiring their platforms allowed me to realize, that this is something I want to do as well. I guess you could say, it’s been years since I’ve wanted to open a physical location. With that thought in my mind, I did know that I wanted to bring my ideal shop in an underserved area, whether it be urban or rural.
Why did you pick the city of Auburn, GA?
I’m originally from Decatur, GA, but grew up in Conyers, GA. Highlights for me growing up were going to flea markets in rural areas and other small towns. I absolutely loved the atmosphere. I can’t forget estate sales and yard sales either. Memories of picking through unearthed treasures back then, reminded me of the atmosphere I found in Auburn. I fell in love with the small town feel and wanted to be a part of a movement, where people are revitalizing and brings eclectic mom and pop shops to communities outside the city. Also, Auburn is about 30 minutes from the University Of Georgia and 15 minutes from Georgia Gwinnett College. Not bad, for traffic amongst the students.
How long did it take for you to officially open?
Before COVID-19 happened, I was selling at weekly markets on Spelmans and Clark’s campuses. Afterwards, I was finding it hard to make ends meet and pay the bills. I didn’t have a big online presence, as everything I built up towards was in person. I knew I had to create a different strategy and decided to put all my coins in this dream of mine. I knew rents in the city were astronomical, so I did research on picking a town outside of the city and near home. GOD led me to Auburn and the rest is history. I opened the store with less than a $1000 and officially opened on July 3, 2021.
Do you see an influx of a need for vintage clothing?
There will always be an influx for vintage clothing, especially with Hollywood coming to Atlanta and many of the younger generations getting into the classic styles. The sad thing for me, is hoping that everyone is authentic and genuine about their need and not just having this need for a trend. I’m a TRUE believer in the regentrification of the thrift stores.
If you could change the game of one thing in the vintage world, what would it be?
The competition amongst other sellers is the change I want to see in the vintage world. We must all believe in community over competition, because honestly that how’s we are led to positive opportunities for each party. I would never attempt to block someone’s blessing for the sake of any item I have, regardless of price or following.
It was so great to reconnect. One last question – how can our readers connect with you, learn more or support you?
If you’re ever in Auburn, Athens, or Gwinnett County, please check out our shop at 1365 4th. Avenue, Auburn, GA 30011. You can find Noughtie Girl @shopnoughtiegirl on IG and our website is www.noughtiegirl.com. Also, if you are wanting to open up your own little shop and need some help, feel free to contact.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.noughtiegirl.com
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/shopnoughtiegirl
- Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/noughtiegirl
- Twitter: www.twitter.com/noughtiegirl
- Yelp: www.yelp.com/noughtiegirl
