Reviewed by: Patience Itson
Find a little bit of everything at these two new small business pop-ups in Forest Park
Reading time: 4 minutes
There are two new small businesses to support in The Highlander building in Forest Park. Joining neighbors like Magic City Organics and Chocolata, rEVOLVEr resale and Cha House are calling the up-and-coming spot home for the summer. From all kinds of consignment goods to a welcoming tea house, read on to learn more about the shops.
Secondhand clothing for all
If you love discovering secondhand treasures, you’re bound to love rEVOLVEr resale. This queer-owned shop stands out with its inclusive, gender-free, judgment-free shopping experience.
Owner Sarah Randolph, who identifies as queer, won Innovation Depot’s first-ever LGBTQ+ pitch competition for founding the unique consignment shop.
“After all, gender is a social construct and is not binary. I don’t want people to feel limited when they come to shop at my store. I want them to feel like they can try on whatever feels good to them, and they will be celebrated for expressing their true selves.”
Sarah Randolph, Owner, rEVOLVEr resale
A safe space for all, especially LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC communities, you’ll find a little bit of everything secondhand, including vintage and modern clothing, accessories, furniture, home goods, kids’ stuff and eventually local art.
You may recognize them from various markets around town. Housed in Vinegar, an artist-run nonprofit art gallery, rEVOLVEr’s pop-up Summer Lovin’ will be in the quaint space through the end of August.
“I’m so grateful to Vinegar for this opportunity and hope to be popping up here through the end of August! After over a year
Sarah Randolph, Owner, rEVOLVEr resale
of doing pop-up markets around town, it was the logical next step before committing to a more long-term brick-and-mortar.”
Randolph plans to start hosting free, weekly happy hour events from 4-6PM every Friday including drinks and a fun activity like tarot readings and recycled art making. Mark your calendars for the first one coming up on June 2—details here.
A place to relax and unwind
Cierra Lober, founder of Cha House. (Cha House)
After you’re done browsing through unique secondhand treasures, you can stroll a few doors down to Cha House, a community space centered around the power of tea.
Founded by Cierra Lober, this space brings the Birmingham community together over a relaxing pot of tea, activities and engaging special events. Cha House is rooted in the idea that tea naturally helps us unwind and enjoy the present moment.
Along with Randolph, Lober is also a graduate from CO.STARTERS through Create Birmingham, which provides valuable resources for local entrepreneurs.
You’ll find Cha House during select hours within Gaia Florals, another local, woman-owned business featuring unique arrangements, bouquets and stems.
Cha House hosts a weekly “Tea &” event every Thursday—find details and ticket info online. Plus, Lober plans to host local, live music on Friday evenings and delicious goods from Last Call Baking on Saturdays.
Stop by the shops
Ready to support these amazing women-owned small businesses? Here’s what you need to know:
Cha House
- Location: Gaia Florals, 701 37th Street S #4, Birmingham, AL 35222
- Hours: Fridays from 1-8PM; Saturdays from 10AM-5PM. Hours subject to change; closed Memorial Day weekend
- Website | Facebook | Instagram
rEVOLVEr Resale
- Location: 701 37th St. S., #12, Birmingham, AL 35222
- Hours: Tuesday-Thursday from 12-6PM; Friday from 11AM-6PM; Saturday from 11AM-4PM. Hours subject to change.
- Facebook | Instagram
Keep your eyes peeled for more info on a vendor market at The Highlander in July.
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