Biz Buzz: Urban Salvage boutique opens in Brainerd | Brainerd Dispatch

The store opened about five weeks ago along a well-traveled stretch of Washington Street next to Hardee’s. Window watchers could see items being added as the store came together and holiday lights went up inside.

Owner Kara Kristofferson, with strong ties in Baxter — Oscar Kristofferson, the man behind the name for the city park, is her grandfather — said her background was in the corporate world for quite a while. When she had a baby in her late 30s, she took time to be at home with him. While she was at home that first year, she started her homebased business with online sales. Kristofferson said the loyal following she gained encouraged her to add a storefront. When she saw the open space in Brainerd with its large south-facing windows, she felt it was the place.

Trish Sypnieski, left, an Urban Salvage regular, completes a purchase Thursday, Dec. 16, 2021, at the Washington Street store with owner Kara Kristofferson. The store opened about five weeks ago.
Renee Richardson / Brainerd Dispatch

Since moving in and setting up the boutique, Kristofferson watched a colorful sunset from her front windows following the recent storm and said it’s hard to describe but the shop has a cozy and at-home feeling for her. A little fireplace adds to the warmth.

Urban Salvage is described as “simply eclectic, beyond unique, timeless décor and home goods at below cost, clearance pricing, new items every visit. Design accent pieces, one of a kind boutique!”

The boutique’s inventory runs the gamut from California King Casaluna comforter sets to children’s clothes, toys, household items, kitchen items, mugs, and décor — even gnome wine toppers. There are 2022 calendars created by a local artist with stickers and a host of stocking stuffer ideas that support other small Minnesota businesses from lip balm to candles to bath bombs. The boutique also has larger furniture, along with stools and items like a striking hourglass-shaped accent table and rugs.

There are home décor signs with Christmas themes such as “May you never be too grown up to search the skies on Christmas Eve” to a Santa’s toy shop pop-up playhouse that sold quickly. Kristofferson said items change daily, which attracts regulars who stop in multiple times a week and also encourages people to buy the item when they see it because it may not be there the next time they come in. A sign behind the counter adds to the emphasis, with “Buy now or cry later.”

The store, at 109 Washington St., has been home to a few businesses in recent years. While the store has significant visibility considering the high traffic volume, parking in front is limited. But a larger parking lot is available at the rear of the building. Kristofferson said she believes her established customer base will be an asset in the location. She said she can’t imagine being anywhere else unless a store expansion meant a need for more space.

There are 2022 calendars created by a local artist with stickers and a host of stocking stuffer ideas that support other small Minnesota businesses from lip balm to candles to bath bombs. The boutique also has larger furniture, along with stools and items like a striking hourglass-shaped accent table and rugs.
Renee Richardson / Brainerd Dispatch

Kristofferson said the building owner, Jan Burton, was amazing and worked with her to make the space affordable so she could keep her prices low and keep the community coming back to the store. The affordability will also help in putting up store signs and directing customers to the parking right around the corner.

“She’s been a big help with everything,” Kristofferson said. “… But outside of space, I could never see myself moving from here. Honestly, I love it here. I like the location.”

Not only does Kristofferson have local sales, she also ships all over. She describes her business as a unique boutique with discounted prices and a great variety of merchandise. Customers might come in for a candle or a rug and find a T-shirt or even beard oil. The store includes household items to clothing, bedding, organization helpers, appliances, curtains and electronics. Kristofferson said she combined the city setting and the items she carries in the name for Urban Salvage. A lot of items, actually new from stores like Target, are considered salvage as she gets those pieces.

Urban Salvage includes home décor and gifts along with furniture, clothing, bedding, toys and children’s items and more. The store’s inventory changes regularly.
Renee Richardson / Brainerd Dispatch

A regular customer, Trish Sypnieski, said the store’s uniqueness and friendly reception are just part of the appeal.

“Her prices are in a good price range that allows you to shop and not feel like you’ve just spent the whole bank on one gift or something like that or decorating your home. I’m into decorating so that’s another big reason that pulls me in here. So I always like bargains. And she has great variety and so many things and she’s very friendly … it’s a cute little store.”

Renee Richardson, managing editor, may be reached at 218-855-5852 or [email protected]. Follow on Twitter at www.twitter.com/DispatchBizBuzz.