Shop local. That’s April Thomas’ mantra. And since she’s the owner of The Sparkly Pig – a hip … maybe woke? ... clothing boutique in downtown Mexico – and …
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Shop local. That’s April Thomas’ mantra. And since she’s the owner of The Sparkly Pig – a hip … maybe woke? ... clothing boutique in downtown Mexico – and president of the Village Square Association, it’s a good mantra to follow. Currently the VSA is running the I Love Local promotion, with discounts and prizes. It’s one of many things the organization does to keep business lively.
Thomas was born and raised in Mexico and has owned The Sparkly Pig for almost five years.
1. You picked a great week to start a promotion.
[Laughs] We were thinking February is already slower. But that’s OK. It’s cheering some people up.
2. How did you come up with the idea?
We were brainstorming with the Chamber, because the Chamber had applied for a grant that could be used to benefit Mexico, so funds could go to the VSA. Dana [Keller, Mexico Area Chamber of Commerce director] was a ton of help. Because of the grant we had money to get t-shirts printed, to help businesses – we have 23 great prizes.
3. You always seem to have things going on.
It’s hard to come up with new ideas. People like the same events, but people want twists on those events. Sometimes it takes awhile for new events to catch on.
4. Is I Love Local something that will continue?
Some variation of it. We will see how customers respond and go from there.
5. How has it been, coping with COVID and now the weather?
COVID has not been fun. But you have to take the good from everything. It has brought awareness to shopping local. Our community has stepped up and supported us. Local businesses, we really care.
6. Is that what keeps you in Mexico?
Yeah – I love it.
7. Where do you come up with ideas to keep things fresh?
I just have a feel for what people like. I love fashion and also know what I like. It may not be for everybody.
8. Do you watch runway shows?
I do it all. I watch everything. Plus I have my young girls to help me stay current. With new technology everything changes so fast.
9. Does that change how you reach out?
I have customers who won’t order online and always come to the store and I have customers who are just the opposite. When COVID shut us down I did Facebook live shows. It’s great to have as many avenues to the customer as you can.
10. On your day off do you go shopping?
[Laughs] Do I shop? Yeah – for groceries. But I buy everything I can local. Since the virus hit my husband and I have been to Columbia twice. If it’s not available here, sure. But why wouldn’t I support fellow business owners?
