Today we’d like to introduce you to Chris Hunt.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Chris. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
I started Seek in 2010. I got laid off from a corporate job in NYC after 10 years and decided to make the move to Chicago which I am thrilled with. It’s nice to change things up and Chicago was a perfect city to start a small business in. I’ve been doing this for going on nine years and it’s going great. I started going out on treasure hunts as soon as I got my license at 16 and there was no going back. I had never done retail before, but I had always dreamed of opening a shop. It’s not always easy but it’s worth it! I love dealing with people (for the most part ha – any store owner can tell you some stories) and I love being a shop keep. Tinkering and making items feel new again and re purposing things is a true joy for me.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc. – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
No, it has not always been a smooth road. Something always comes up… like I’m filling this out on the late side of things for instance, ha! In all seriousness though, I’ve had kinda a crap landlord in the past. Getting behind on taxes is something one never wants to do – it messes up the whole system on how to survive. Dealing with the city for permits and such is a drag. And February for retail always is the worst – landlords should give all retail tenants a month free rent every February – I can dream! I have to beg and borrow to stay afloat at times, but I guess that is part of the game.
We’d love to hear more about your business.
I am the sole owner of Seek Vintage. I’m good and patient at picking through what many others would call “junk.” I can spend 12 hours someplace and not get overwhelmed because that thrill of the hunt is so enticing…never knowing what you are going to find! I think we are known for a little bit of everything – great barware and clothing. Our jewelry section is always pretty stellar too. We also have smaller furniture items, lamps, and funky wall art! Something for everyone really. We even have vintage Chicago Bears glasses in right now. I’m most proud of being a member of the community both in business and as a resident. The West Town Chamber of Commerce is great to work with and that helps a bunch on the business side of things. Our store has a laid-back vibe…we have monthly parties and sales that we are known quite well for, that and just being here almost 10 years helps for people to notice us!
What were you like growing up?
I was a class clown, but really shy inside back then. Making jokes always got me through many situations as a kid. I pretty much always had straight A’s. Not much of a sports guy… more into art and photography. I’ve always had good attention to detail and that has helped me at every single job I’ve ever done, from diner cook to interning at Catherine Malandrino, I always took notes with a pen and pad! I was the class president for 3 years and I ran just to shake up tradition at my school – it was kind of stale.
Pricing:
- Clothing – Mens & Womens $15-$100
- Glassware sets $14-$50
- Vintage lamps/luggage/hats & shoes $20-$75
Contact Info:
- Address: 1433 West Chicago Avenue
- Website: www.chicagoseekvintage.com
- Phone: 312 526 3164
- Email: seekvintagechicago@gmail.com
- Instagram: @seekvintage
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Seek-Vintage-237284305309/?ref=settings
Image Credit:
Black & white photo of me was taken by Marisa Klug-Morataya @marisakmphoto
Getting in touch: VoyageChicago is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
