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pting for local goods and services is more than making a purchase – it’s an investment in Chatham; on average, two-thirds of every dollar spent at a local business stays in the community. We spoke to some of our readers’ favorite downtown retailers and galleries to find out what keeps their customers coming back time after time.
Screaming for Vintage
“I just think we’re a good time,” says Mary Piraino, co-owner of Screaming for Vintage. “Our prices are fair, there is always great music and good conversation. Some customers tell me it can [feel] like time traveling when they visit. We try to curate unique items – beautiful, weird, interesting designs, etc. and we get new pieces in all the time. We’re always looking to buy vintage, too, and that’s fun for us to do while we’re up at the shop.” Best-selling items at SFV include mid-century modern furniture, vintage clothes and vinyl records, followed by art and books. Regular store hours are Thursdays-Saturdays 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sundays noon-4 p.m, but customers can also call to make an appointment on days the shop is closed. Mary says she’s excited to welcome a new business upstairs that will complement SFV. “Our friend Mikey Hayes will be renting out the space for his workshop, PTD Furniture Makers. He has already been doing some custom work for us, including Danish cording and upholstery, and is also
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A SHOPPER’S GUIDE TO CULTIVATING HOMETOWN CONNECTIONS BY ANNA-RHESA VERSOLA
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CHATHAM MAGAZINE
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2023
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHN MICHAEL SIMPSON
Lysandra Weber owns downtown Pittsboro-based clothing studio Geek Chic Fashion and enjoys seeing what's new on Hillsboro Street.