I can't contain the excitement I feel for this to be coming to fruition... When I started this thing up in 2021, I knew it would be a while before being able to go brick + mortar but it was always the goal. To finally be at this stage after three years of a slow build feels surreal. But persistency and hard work are paying off, and the support from everyone thus far has obviously been integral.
I can't fully unveil the location just yet, but I am beyond thrilled for where Cats Eye will be in Boise, amongst amazing neighbors and other cool businesses. Can't wait to share those details soon! I should be getting access to the space starting November 1st and hope to be opening for business in December this year!
The plan is to be part retail, selling gently loved arts and craft supplies, and part classroom, where myself and other instructors will lead affordable creative workshops. I would love to know what classes folks in the community would be interested in. I'm thinking, collage and card making nights, monthly zodiac themed crafts, embroidery and macrame, assemblage, etc. I'm also planning to incorporate more kids' programming as well! Think birthday parties at Ceramica, but with creative reuse projects instead - Build Your Own Diorama, Rube Goldberg Machines, Sewing Stuffies.
The truth is, I have a million ideas and visions for what I want Cats Eye to be and the roll I want to play in everything. And I'm going to have to be very careful to not overextend myself or teeter too much or too often on the edge of burnout - as I will be the sole person running this operation for the foreseeable future. So I'm planning to stick with a slow progression. An unfolding. Like unwrapping a sweet gift with intention and care.
I'm excited for you all to be a part of the process and progress! There wouldn't be any reason for doing this, or any fun in it, if it weren't for the people in this community who think this is as cool as I do, haha. Thanks for being here!