Hidden Gems: Meet Christie Capo Pace of Vintage October

Today we’d like to introduce you to Christie Capo Pace.

Hi Christie, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I was born and raised in a small town in Northern New Jersey. I received my degree in business from a local state school and continued on to begin my working career in the fashion industry in NYC. I worked for Ralph Lauren and Macy’s Herald Square for about five years. I reached a certain point in my life where I was questioning my career choices and not ultimately happy in my position and working for such a large company. I felt I wasn’t able to exercise my creativity and had deep feelings of wanting more out of life. At the age of 30, I left my buying position at Macy’s to pursue something greater. I began working as a full-time waitress at a local busy seafood restaurant. Things were starting to make sense.

A year and a half later, my now husband and I were in talks about moving to LA. I had only visited one time for two days but I dreamed of the opportunity and the idea of shooting for the stars. Fast forward, we took the plunge and drove across the country for eight days mid-pandemic. We arrived at our new apartment in LA on May 7th. Exactly three months later, I launched my online clothing business. Creating this business was a dream of mine far before college days, something I never knew I was able to do or for that matter have the courage. LA welcomed me with nothing but opportunity and a community of AMAZING small businesses to connect with.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It certainly has not been a smooth road! The decision to leave my career and literally walk blindly into the next chapter of my life was terrifying. I have struggled the most financially and emotionally after making the decision to leave but knew that as long as I followed my heart, I would end up in the right place. Creating a business during a pandemic is a very tricky thing, let alone moving during one! The plan to make the big move had been in place a couple of months before the pandemic started. At the time, I had already put in my notice that I was leaving my job and making my way out to LA to start a new life. Two weeks later, everything shut down. I was never able to finish my two weeks or even say goodbye to my amazing work family.

I was already moved out of my house and staying at a family members for what was expected to be two weeks that turned into three months. Sunny California was waiting for us and we needed to make our way out there or else we would lose our apartment and our opportunity to make this a reality. Arriving in LA during those treacherous months was bittersweet. The concern of leaving our family members behind and the ever so present question “Am I doing the right thing” continuously re-appearing. Fast forward eight months living in LA still amidst the raging pandemic and I am truly grateful to say I am able to continue to grow my small business which is now my entire heart & soul, with the help of this community that really has come together in full support making these difficult times a little easier.

Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Shop Vintage October is an online shop offering trend forward women’s clothing, jewelry & accessories. I wanted to create a meaningful brand with aspirational ideals and a true uniqueness. Vintage October was born from the love of nostalgia and vintage inspiration; evoking the simple joy of exploring a world and time very different from our own through personal style. I have always essentially studied LA streetwear trends and style, it just resonated with me on a deep creative level. With the help of my professional experience in buying, I paired my obsession with curation and individuality to start Vintage October the brand. I source my apparel and accessories from LA-based design houses.

I am also proud to say all of our jewelry is handmade and sourced from local small batch, women-owned jewelry makers! I spend a lot of time on original content creation and ensuring a powerful social presence. When I started (only five months ago!) my vision was and still is to create modern lifestyle content. Essentially not using any models and curating the perfect lifestyle scenes based on a curated outfit. I am most proud of my brand for seeking individuality and an overall good vibes approach. I hope to instill confidence and joy in the women who purchase my pieces. I also release vintage tee collections about 1-2x a month based on my design, also locally sourced!

How can people work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
Great question! I have to say one of my favorite things about the business is the overwhelming support from others, particularly other small businesses. I have been fortunate to meet so far about 15 other small business owners from attending local flea markets and pop-ups all throughout LA! I have so far collaborated with several creatives and small businesses whether it be designing a special collection for my website or simply supporting their business ventures by purchasing from them and promoting their content on social. I love working with other amazing talented people!! I am always looking to collaborate with other brands to make something special and exclusive. Another huge way to support during these times is to engage on social media with your favorite small businesses! Interaction on the social platforms goes a long way for small brands like myself!

Contact Info:

• Email: [email protected]
• Website: www.shopvintageoctober.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shopvintageoctober/
• Other: https://www.pinterest.com/christiecapo/vintage-october/