A new shopping destination is set to enhance the local community in St. Joseph, Missouri. The Polished Porch Antique & Boutique Mall is scheduled to open its doors on March 21, 2024, with a soft launch planned for March 4, 2024. This unique antique shop aims to bring together a variety of local vendors under one roof, offering a diverse selection of products including furniture, handmade crafts, jams, and jewelry.
Owners Erika Frieden and Ashton Burton, who are cousins, have designed the mall to foster collaboration among local businesses. The venue will feature two upstairs areas and one room on the ground floor, allowing multiple vendors to showcase their offerings. According to Frieden, “That’s what kind of separates us from any normal antique shop, because we have such a variety of items.”
The duo envisions a space that not only highlights their own products but also supports other local entrepreneurs. Some vendors have decades of experience, while others are new to the business, creating a blend of expertise and fresh perspectives. “It’s been really neat to see them communicate, help each other, and grow as businesses,” Frieden stated.
Finding a suitable location was a priority for Frieden and Burton. They sought a familiar and accessible site within St. Joseph that could accommodate various small businesses. Burton emphasized the convenience of having multiple shopping options in one place, particularly during the busy holiday season. “When you are Christmas shopping, it can be a hassle to go from one store to another. I think it’s an attractive aspect for people to have lots of options in one place. It builds a good community,” he said.
The new shop, located at 3603 Frederick Ave, plans to celebrate its grand opening with food trucks and other pop-up vendors, creating a festive atmosphere for attendees. This approach aims not only to attract customers but also to foster a sense of community among local businesses and shoppers alike.
Vendors interested in collaborating with the Polished Porch Antique & Boutique Mall can reach out via their Facebook page or contact them directly at 816-294-3794 and 816-262-1043. With this new venture, Frieden and Burton are poised to make a significant impact on the local retail landscape, offering a vibrant space for both shoppers and vendors in St. Joseph.
