Today we’d like to introduce you to Carlee Smith.
Hi Carlee, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I’ve been a vintage clothing lover since high school. I grew up in New York surrounded by second hand shops and specialty vintage stores. There is something energizing about finding a garment from another era and breathing a second life into it. For me, it’s a creative practice I engage in on a near daily basis.
I started in the vintage and resale clothing business in 2007 with my former business partner, Annie. After holding monthly sales for two years out of a basement, we opened a brick and mortar shop in downtown Portland. We had a blast. Our shop was featured on travel programs in Europe, mentioned in several fashion and lifestyle magazines, and even the New York Times. We were even given air time on several episodes of a pickers show on the Spike Channel. We sold the business in 2016 and I went to work for the City of Portland. However, I never really stopped selling vintage on the side.
In 2021 I started really leaning into vending at market events. I expanded my stock to include vintage housewares and decided to rent booth space at a local vintage mall. This was the step I really needed. In 2024 I decided that I really missed having a store. I also met so many vendors who were always searching for for space to sell their merchandise so, I decided to open Parcera Vintage. I just celebrated two years this past September 15th.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Having this store has been a lot of fun for me so, even when the road isn’t that smooth, it’s still pretty wonderful. Like many new businesses experience, the first two years of operation has felt like a trial and error period. We’re also in a time of economic uncertainty and people are being cautious with their spending. I talk with other business owners here in Portland and all report a dip in spending overall. My customers are shopping for every day wear, so our prices have to be reasonable. However, I’m getting more return customers and while people are spending less individually, it seems to be balancing out. What I like best is getting to know my regular customers and seeing them leave happy time and time again.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about Parcera Vintage?
Parcera Vintage is a vintage and modern resale shop carrying vintage clothing, accessories, and decor from Y2K and beyond. We are size inclusive and carry sizes XS – 5X. Our shop features all Portland based Women and Nonbinary vendors and makers. Shoppers can expect a variety of styles from across eras at affordable prices ($20-$50). If shoppers need help with styling or need assistance selecting items, we provide specialized attention with colors, clothing silhouettes and sizing.
What do you like and dislike about the city?
I love that vintage is very popular in Portland. It doesn’t seem to be a trend that is slowing down as people make a conscious choice to choose second hand clothing and decor. Over the last several years it has exploded in popularity which is a great thing! However, this does mean there are many different vintage and second hand stores and businesses in town so there is good competition.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/parceravintage/
