flourishing affair
The business Kate Estwing started back in 2012 out of her home has grown so much, she’s opening a storefront, City House Country Mouse, on The Hill. Estwing will continue providing flower arrangements for weddings, events and homes at the new locale at 2105 Marconi Ave. while embracing the slow flower movement by using fresh, local blooms. She also focuses on reducing inorganic waste such as plastic traditionally used in the process. The grand opening weekend is Aug. 16 through 18.
eyes open
As a nod to their retail heritage, brothers Jack and Tony Erker recently opened Copper Hinge in the Delmar Loop. The optical store has its own factory where small batches of eyeglasses are made on-site. The Erkers are fifth-generation opticians whose great-grandfather was the official photographer for the World’s Fair in 1904 and whose shop made shatterproof goggles for Charles Lindbergh before his famous flight across the ocean.
texture of a smile
Pure silk can be hard to find, and it’s even more difficult when it comes to clothing. But a new boutique on South Grand is working to fill the void. Avec Lua offers a mix of handmade silks and designer handbags by owner Hanna Nguyen, all under the brand name Make Every Day Happy.
going once …
Selkirk Auctioneers & Appraisers has a new home. The gallery now resides at 555 Washington Ave. between the Missouri Athletic Club and the National Blues Museum and is 60 percent larger than the previous space in the Central West End. Selkirk is a full-service auction firm for art, antiques and collectibles.
lookin’ good
The Central West End is suiting up! Suitsupply, a store for men with discerning taste, recently opened its first St. Louis location in a 4,500-square-foot space at 44 Maryland Plaza. Along with offering full collections of seasonal suits, jackets, shoes, outerwear, accessories and attire, customers have access to expert stylists and can make appointments for tailoring to be completed on site while they wait. The European brand is known for its quality apparel and has nearly 100 stores around the world.
long run
Big River Running Company is among the 50 top running stores in America, according to Running Insight. This is the store’s 11th year on the list and the only one in St. Louis to be featured.
