As we celebrate 3 months in our new NYC flagship store, we can't help but look back at how we got here!
In January 2023, we were thrown a curveball. Our storefront in the Westchester Mall, which we called home for 3 years, was ripped from underneath our feet. With less than 30 days left to our lease and no preparation, we packed all of our stuff into a storage unit and hit the streets.
Finding a new home was a challenge, but we were determined to succeed. If making it through a global pandemic taught us anything it was perseverance against impossible odds.
We knew our new home was out there, we just had to find it.
That's when we discovered a hidden gem - a 500 square feet boutique in the heart of the Lower East Side. The neighborhood was vibrant, the space was the perfect size, and the people were a blend of locals, college students, and folks visiting from out of town.
45 First Ave
New York, NY 10003
We instantly felt at home! Now we had to make it look like home.
Curating this space was not something we accomplished alone - it truly takes a village. There were blood, sweat, and tears, but also so much support in making this space come alive. By the time opening came around, we were stunned at how much work we got done in such a short amount of time.
On March 1st we officially opened our doors! So many joined us as we popped champagne on First Ave and toasted to the DOPE Fam who made it happen.
It's been 3 months and we can't believe how lucky we are to call NYC our home again. What's even better is seeing so many of our regulars continue to step through our doors, that's what's really dope.
Haven't seen our new digs yet? Visit us 7 days a week, 12:00pm-8:00pm.
PlayHardLookDope
45 First Ave
New York, NY 10003