A few weeks ago I attended the Grand Opening of Koch and Company, our latest stockists. I’m so proud to be a part of this gallery, with our products for sale next to some of the most unique and beautiful arts and crafts that I have ever seen. Deborah, the owner, has a big vision for this shop, and is so passionate to have brought beautiful art to her neighborhood, one that is not known as a cultural epicenter in Louisville. Her gallery is a good place to find gifts in all price ranges. I purchased a gift for my parents’ anniversary (but since they read the blog, I can’t say what it is and ruin the surprise!) Thanks Deborah for sharing more about the gallery and including pictures of some of the amazing products you sell!
Koch and Company
10978 Dixie Highway
Louisville, KY 40272
(502) 618-4069
www.kochandcompany.com
Love how they've displayed Vintage Body Spa - check out the antique tub!
1) Tell us your story – how long have you been an artist, what most inspires you, and tell us about your shop – when did it open, what inspired you to open a store, why/how you chose your location, etc.
I have been an artist since I was four if you count me drawing a shark on a piece of paper and chasing my sister around the house with it! I paint, sew, cook, cater, quilt, do carpentry, design, landscape, graphic and webpage design, mom, work on my own car, love my animals, ect…
Many things inspire me. Smells, colors, flavors, textures, and sounds to name a few. The way light hits a Sugar Maple in the fall and it looks like the tree is on fire is inspiring. Seeing my kids sleep curled up with a cat, watching my husband working on heavy equipment and moving earth inspires me. See our horses play and roll in mud inspires me.
Koch and Company is something I have wanted to do for many years. Being surrounded by the art of others and showing it to people who may have never been to a gallery is just plain cool. The artists in the gallery are a collection of friends with the same goal: Selling their wares to those who appreciate it. We have 43 wonderful artists who are some of the most talented people I have ever met and had the opportunity to work with.
Funny question here, “Why did I open a gallery?” To be honest, I am a terrible employee! Most employers do not like ideas or changing the way things have been done for years. People get comfortable in doing the same old thing because it works. My thing is “What if we do this? Or try this?” That tends to not fit into the normal work place. I am not a cookie cutter kinda girl! I have opinions, a huge heart, a sense of humor, and I take my work very seriously.
I chose Valley Station because it is MY community. From all the research that went into my business plan, Valley Station has a much lower debt to income ratio. This means that more homes are paid off or almost paid off, fewer credit card debts and higher income due to smarter spending habits. I love the values in my community. Neighbors get along, less crime, and we have a lot of community involvement. We need Koch and Company, we need culture, we need a boutique like atmosphere for shopping that doesn’t include Wal-Mart.
2) How would you describe the products you sell?
We sell all sorts of creative goodies! Fine art that includes many types of paintings, pottery, fine jewelry, handmade clothing for children, furniture and stained glass. We have antiques, custom framing and wonderful spa products that everyone is crazy over! (hint, hint)
A Kentucky shop MUST have horses!
3) What’s the best part about being a small business owner? The worst part?
The best part…. I’m in charge.
The worst part…. I’m in charge.
Talk amongst yourselves on this one…..
4) Does your shop have any unique promotions/events to engage current customers or draw in new customers?
We are in the process of running a Groupon in a couple of weeks. Other frame shops in Louisville RAVE of the benefits of running a groupon. We hope that the framing portion of the business takes a huge leap once it runs!
The holidays are going to be awesome! I am a Christmas Addict! I can’t wait to decorate the store with all the items we have! TREES TREES TREES!!! I can’t wait to make a Vintage Spa tree!
5) What is your favorite Vintage Body Spa product?
MY personal favorite is the Vanilla/Buttermilk Bath Soak…. It’s like taking a bath surrounded in my favorite food… SUGAR COOKIES!
We have heard raves about the Sinus Masks and the Passionfruit Rose Whipped Shea Butter!
When people come in, I make them smell the fragrances and try the lotions next to the register. Everyone loves them!
6) If you could request a new product or essential oil scented item for Vintage Body Spa to create, what would it be – what are your customers looking for?
Vanilla Buttermilk Lotion…. I would never be without it!
7) Any exciting news or promotions you’d like to share?
The Groupon coming out soon is awesome! $100 custom framing coupon for $50. You will be able to frame ANYTHING and save $100 for $50. So drag out that picture of the kids, your mother-in-law, or your diploma and get it framed! If you don’t spend the whole coupon, we are extending and making an additional offer of using the remainder on your next purchase! Try us! You will like us!
Koch and Company offers over 200 custom frames for all your art.
8 ) Please feel free to share anything else with us.
We welcome all visitors to our Gallery. You will receive friendly, non-pushy, non-snobby customer service. We are simple people who are knowledgeable about the art and handcrafted items we sell. Stop in… Sit a spell… and have fun!
(Make sure you try the Vanilla ButterMilk Milk Bath… It’s to die for!)
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