Today we’d like to introduce you to Mandy Rogers-Kravetz.
Hi Mandy, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I founded Beggars Banquet Vintage in 2011, naming the shop after the 1968 Rolling Stones album. After working in retail and growing discouraged by the poor quality and ethics of fast fashion, I decided to open an online vintage shop. I ran this one-woman show from Phoenix for five years before making the cross-country move to Philadelphia, PA. There, I opened a brick-and-mortar in the heart of Roxborough and grew the BBV family. After three fantastic years, the B&M unfortunately had to close.
Now, I am based out of my hometown, St Louis, MO. I run the shop online and at pop-ups throughout the area with a commitment to recycling all things retro! Join me in standing against the fast fashion industry, and looking damn good while doing it.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
There have definitely been challenges along the way! I put a lot of time and resources into each and every piece. You’ll never purchase a BBV item with that old, mildewy vintage clothing smell. The clothes are either hand washed or dry cleaned, and steamed to perfection. I also do a lot of professional repairs to ensure excellent condition. With all of these expenses, I wasn’t able to keep my brick-and-mortar store open in Philadelphia, but am grateful to be able to continue to sell online.
Sometimes, an unfair review can set back the shop rating, which I work so hard to upkeep. I once had a customer give me 1 star because the 1970’s sweater they purchased was “old.” I replied, “You are correct, it is 50 years old to be exact!” Operating a small business can be challenging, for sure.
Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Beggars Banquet Vintage?
I specialize in 50s-80s vintage. While 90s and y2k vintage pieces are awesome, too, the materials and craftsmanship of the earlier years really stands out. I am proud of sourcing true vintage pieces, cleaning them, and carefully preparing them for their new home. Beggars Banquet Vintage sizing is inclusive, and I believe that everyone deserves to feel fantastic in what they’re wearing.
Do you any memories from childhood that you can share with us?
I didn’t have a lot of resources growing up. One year, I got an apple for Christmas. Another year, socks, another year – shoes! That year, I was so obsessed with my new shoes that I set them on the foot of my bed when I went to sleep so that I could wake up to them before school. This way of living and appreciating clothing impacted what I do today – treating vintage items as precious items deserving of attention and care.
Pricing:
- Free U.S. shipping on all items
Contact Info:
- Website: https://beggarsbanquetvintage.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beggarsbanquet_vintage
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BeggarsBanquet
- Other: https://www.depop.com/beggarsbanquetvintage/
