We recently had the chance to connect with Tammy Heet & Kay Miller and have shared our conversation below.
Tammy & Kay , really appreciate you sharing your stories and insights with us. The world would have so much more understanding and empathy if we all were a bit more open about our stories and how they have helped shaped our journey and worldview. Let’s jump in with a fun one: What do you think is misunderstood about your business?
Vintage is such a broad term; it’s essentially something that is over twenty years old. We consider Assassin Vintage to be a true vintage shop – we mostly sell pieces that are from the 70s/80s and older. What people may not think of when buying a piece of clothing is that the constant that vintage brings to the table is quality. A cashmere sweater from the 60’s could quite possibly outlast a new cashmere sweater. And, the styling of vintage is so broad that you may discover everything from a classic silhouette in essential black to pieces constructed out of fabric brimming with colors unavailable in today’s fashion. And since we clean and mend every piece, we like to say they are like new, only better. Vintage can be for everyone wanting quality pieces in their wardrobe.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
We are. Kay and Tammy, two friends who ventured onto a new path and started Assassin Vintage in our 50s in 1999. Sharing a love for vintage, a funky aesthetic, a fierce work ethic, and an unwavering dedication to revitalizing vintage clothes – we plunged ourselves into the brand and have not looked back since. A customer once said that they loved our shop since it was “all killer, no filler.” We aim to curate a collection that sparks excitement about styling your wardrobe in a space that feels inviting. It took us awhile to find the right spot for our brick and mortar, but in November 2021 we moved into our home at 3156 Cherokee Street. We love the Cherokee community and that it’s truly a street where a friends can meet and spent time exploring and shopping.
Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. What did you believe about yourself as a child that you no longer believe?
I believed that money was the driver of goals. I didn’t follow my passions and pursue my interests in a career. Some think it’s too much to work 6 plus days a week, but doing something I believe in and enjoy makes each work day good and not a chore. I’m always trying to pack in more to each day, but it really brings me joy and when others fall in love with out pieces, it makes it all worth it.
Tammy
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
It’s ok not to give 100% all the time. My worth isn’t based on what work I get done, what grades I achieve, or what others project on me. I’d allow myself to not always strive for that 100% effort and be ok with scaling back and enjoying the journey. No one will ask you for your gpa in high school when you are 50 years old but you may remember a time when you went to a local pond with your best friend.
Tammy
So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
Since the pandemic the resale clothing market has been flooded. It’s dramatically changed the landscape on pricing pieces. A comparable piece can sell for such a large range and in such varying condition that it’s extremely hard to price based on comps. Workwear is so hot and sought after and big ticket prices and distressed pieces that have “negative space” aka holes are the fad.
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
That she cared. She cared about people and was respectful of the earth and the things surrounding her.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.assassinvintage.com
- Instagram: @assassin_vintage
- Facebook: AssassinVintage
Image Credits
These photographs were done by us.
