A new venture has emerged in Washington, D.C.’s vibrant vintage retail landscape. Five local independent retailers have joined forces to create the Golden Hour Collective, set to celebrate its grand opening on February 7, 2025. This secondhand boutique takes over the former location of the beloved Meeps Vintage, a storied shop known for its unique offerings.
The collaboration began when the co-owners learned that Meeps Vintage was looking for a new tenant. They pooled their resources to secure the space, a rare opportunity for many in the bustling pop-up market. Each member of the collective brings her own inventory, retaining proceeds from her sales while sharing monthly rent and operating costs. “The collective is our umbrella and we’re all underneath it, but we maintain our individuality,” said co-owner Sharon Jordan.
One standout feature of Golden Hour is its commitment to creating a warm and inviting atmosphere for shoppers. Ashasha Sumbatyan, another co-owner, emphasizes this goal through her brand, Tea Life, which offers homemade tea brews and accessories. “Instead of coming in and feeling dehydrated or cold, you can have something that’s gonna nourish you,” Sumbatyan explained. This focus on customer experience aims to differentiate Golden Hour from other retail outlets.
Beyond their individual offerings, Golden Hour Collective seeks to foster community among local vendors. In the months leading to their official opening, the collective hosted pop-up events featuring various independent businesses. “We’re lucky to live in an area that loves vintage and secondhand fashion and items so much, but it’s not the most accessible thing for small businesses,” remarked Emilie Razuri, another co-owner.
The legacy of Meeps Vintage is a significant presence in the new venture. The previous owner, Cathy Chung, who passed away in the summer of 2024, left a lasting impact on the neighborhood. “Everyone in the neighborhood knows her name, so I feel like that’s been a huge help to us,” said Asena Leyla Johnson, recognizing the importance of their predecessor’s reputation.
Inclusivity is another cornerstone of Golden Hour’s mission. While the collective primarily offers women’s apparel, it also includes selections for men and children, highlighting a commitment to diverse shopping needs. The co-owners strive to maintain affordable pricing, differentiating their offerings from other vintage stores in the area. “There are other vintage stores in DC, but the price point is definitely different than what we are doing here,” noted Cesca Thorne.
A key aspect of their business model revolves around sourcing high-quality thrift finds. With backgrounds in international development, the co-owners are conscious of the environmental and social implications of fast fashion. “We don’t sell fast fashion,” Jordan stated, adding that if they do carry such brands, it is typically because the item is unique or pre-dates the fast fashion era.
The generational diversity among the co-owners—from Gen Z to Gen X—enriches their approach to business and marketing. “It’s nice because Cesca and Emily are popping out TikToks that bring people in, and then Sharon is in the background setting up our tax ID,” Johnson explained, showcasing how their varied expertise contributes to a well-rounded business strategy.
As Golden Hour Collective prepares to welcome customers, the co-owners are eager to establish their presence in D.C.’s vintage community. With a strong foundation based on collaboration, inclusivity, and a shared commitment to sustainability, they aim to make a lasting impact in the local retail scene.
