June 03, 2021
Welcome to The Collective Thread, a monthly newsletter from the founders of The Collective.
The idea for The Collective was conceived eight years ago, when Kathy Pederson, owner of Dolly’s Bookstore and the Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, and Katherine Quinlan, owner of Jolie clothing boutique, joined forces to host a holiday gift trunk show for friends and patrons. The combination of designer clothes, homeware, books, gifts, and unique artisan goods was a huge hit. “One-stop shopping!” exclaimed the happy customers. As the two entrepreneurs continued to discuss their goals, dreams, and priorities over the next few years, The Collective evolved from a vision to a live establishment in early 2020. The resulting collaboration reflects how Katherine and Kathy define the modern mountain lifestyle: comfortable, casual, active - without sacrificing style.
The people who reside in and visit Park City enjoy the outdoors, the small town feel, as well as the sophisticated amenities like world-class restaurants, year-round ski resorts, and accessibility provided by Salt Lake City’s newly revamped International airport. Consequently, the Collective’s clientele have a broad range of clothing needs. They often drop by in the morning wearing their active gear, then head to a business meeting in the afternoon, pick up children from school, and host a dinner party in the evening. Kathy and Katherine curate a mix of merchandise that encourages the customer to foster their own personal style for any occasion.
The idea is that anyone, who walks into The Collective can take home a piece of the modern mountain lifestyle - whether they are 20 years old or 80, a local or a visitor, styling themselves or their home, or just trying to find that perfect gift. The brands are carefully selected and include a range of price points and silhouettes that suit women of all generations. Fit, style, high-quality, wearability, fair trade and sustainability are hallmarks that drive the collections they offer. The partners thrive on discovering new ideas from like-minded entrepreneurs and artisans and showcasing them at The Collective.
The Collective’s name emerged because they wanted a broad umbrella to support a range of designers and artists that is always changing and featuring special items that can’t be found in other mountain towns. For example, Trip Hunter of Blue Fig creates fabulous charcuterie boards out of walnut and colored resin which are exclusively sold through The Collective. Lindsay Arnold, of Quincy Candle Co, makes concrete candle molds and hand pours a soy blend wax with a custom scent made especially for Collective shoppers. Stefani Kimche sells her decorative SAAM journey beads at the store, and Ron Butkovich, of RSB Designs, is a local jeweler who fashions organic, eclectic pieces that completely articulate the modern mountain lifestyle. The team also organizes a trunk show with a different designer/artisan every month. The store is consistently fresh, which offers both locals and visitors new reasons to pop in.
Equally as important as having the right mix of products, Katherine and Kathy wanted to create the right vibe. “We envisioned a space that felt immediately welcoming and fun; a place you would stay a while and not feel rushed.” The store manager, Kristin Silvestri (a clothing designer in her own right) along with her team of style assistants, create a warm, welcoming environment for all who enter. Often you will find customers who know each other chatting about their kids or latest bike ride. Tourists can be seen getting recommendations from staff for their favorite restaurants, hikes, and local activities. There is a happy energy and a sense of connection and inspiration when you enter The Collective. The team strives to forge an experience that the community will appreciate, which includes human engagement and an outstanding level of customer service. Staff are ready to assist with style advice, gift wrapping, special orders, shipping, and easy returns. Of course, online shopping is also supported, but the two women were conscientious about cultivating a brick and mortar experience that encourages customers to visit the store in person.
At no time was that more important than during the pandemic. The Collective was originally scheduled to open in March of 2020 but was pushed back to May because of the COVID shutdowns. Kathy, Katherine, and Kristin (the three K’s as they are affectionately referred to) had to perform the pandemic pivot and quickly set up an online shop, offer curbside pick up, 1:1 shopping appointments, and personal home deliveries. They also filled the store with uplifting goods that brought hope and a laugh like the Love and Peace signs composed of bright recycled magazines, large heart prints from French Graffiti, colorful soft face masks from Chan Luu, gift packages to brighten the day of a distant loved one, and the popular Wash Your Fucking Hands hand wash. The team was rewarded with customers who were excited to leave their homes and explore all that The Collective had to offer, and they are eternally grateful for the support they received from the local and tourist community over the past year.
Make sure to follow The Collective on social media (@thecollectiveatparkcity on instagram) for the latest info on events, brands, and fun!
See you in the store soon!