This week’s local business feature is Velvet Moon in Finnieston, we caught up with Brenda Wallace, the owner, to know why she chose and loves that location.
Can you tell us a little bit about Velvet Moon, what we can find in the store, how do you choose the items and collections?
Velvet Moon is a beautiful little boutique shop on Argyle Street in the heart of Glasgow’s Finnieston area. It has always been my passion to create a little unique shop which gives our customers an alternative to the usual high street stores. We sell a great range of beautiful cards, artwork by local artists, gorgeous Italian clothing collections, candles, gifts, jewellery, handbags, toys and homeware. I am passionate about sourcing great stock and love that we work with many local artists, makers and ethically sourced companies.
We are honoured to have been finalists twice in The Gift Retail Awards for Best Scottish Independent Gift Retailer.
When did you open Velvet Moon and why did you choose Finnieston as the perfect location?
We first opened over 6 years ago, at St George’s Road but made the move to Finnieston over 3 and half years ago. At that time there was already a feeling that Finnieston was beginning to evolve into something special.
What does the area offer that made it so perfect for your business? Does Finnieston have a close community?
It is such a wonderful place to have my business. There is a strong sense of support and community here. We also have a great Community Council who volunteer their time and do great work and we’ve taken part in a number of enterprises over the last few years, supporting local nurseries, Schools and community projects.
I believe much of that is due to the fact that so many of the businesses are independently owned and run by local people, who work very hard and take a great pride what they do.
What are your favourite things about Finnieston?
We have some of Glasgow’s top restaurants and bars in Finnieston as well as wonderful cafes, galleries and then of course …shops! We have the majestic Kelvingrove Gallery and Museum round the corner, beautiful Kelvingrove Park and the Hydro and SECC all within walking distance.
What kind of customers do you have?
Every day is different for us. We have so many amazing regular customers who pop in to find something different or sometimes just to say hi and have a wee chat and a catch up. There are also a lot of people who work in and around here and who are great at popping in on their lunch hour or on their way home to pick up a wee card or gift.
They often say how much they love the shop, not only for the unusual and unique choice but the fact that they don’t have to go into the City Centre or out of town shopping centres!
We also get to meet so many wonderful people who are visiting Glasgow, maybe for a gig, or work, or on holiday. We are so proud of our home town and we regularly give people recommendations, directions and sometimes translations of the Glasgow Banter! We get great feedback about the shop and about Glasgow itself! Even the weather doesn’t put them off!
Which product are your best sellers?
We’re not afraid to be a little edgy sometimes and some of our best sellers are made right here in Glasgow.
The Glasgow Banter mugs and cards by Lisa Donati and fantastic artwork by Ross Muir, Adrian McMurchie, and Keith Pirrie.
Thinking about a move? Become part of the great community living in Finnieston. Check out the properties available for sale and rent at s1homes.
Are you living near Finnieston or are you considering a visit? Remember to pop by Velvet Moon, there’s something for everyone.
