Interview with Pennie Gaudi, owner/operator
Q: How did you get involved in this business?
A: I got out of the corporate world in 2013 and wanted to do something that would help local artisans, craftsmen and the community. Little did I know that by starting this I would have more than 300 local artisans and craftsmen plus homemade furniture and antiques. I started off in a 1,800-square-foot store with only 15 vendors at the time in Windy Point, which is just outside of Conifer, in May 2013. It wasn’t long after that I saw an opportunity to expand into Conifer at the Safeway Center to have more artists and craftsmen. So we moved in June 2014 and opened that location with 90-plus vendors. After a year or so, I expanded to the Colorado Mills mall. I am excited that things have worked out the way they have for me and the artisans and craftsmen. We are looking to open our third store hopefully in a year or two.
Q: What distinguishes you from other businesses in your category?
A: We have more than 300 total artists and craftsmen with antiques and handmade furniture under one roof. We are a local business and nobody around can compare to our customer service. I am proud to say we are very eclectic and if you can’t find it in one of our stores, you don’t need it. Customer orders are what we love to do. I can have pretty much anything made for you. One-of-a-kind is always a great thing.
Q: What do you like best about your line of work?
A: When I started this, it was for the artists and craftsmen that didn’t have a place to showcase their wares at a reasonable price. So, by doing this for them I feel like I have Christmas every day. Every time an artist or craftsman comes in, I am jumping to see what they have. Just like a kid in a candy store. My customers who shop regularly feel the same way. They come in and say, “What’s new, Pennie?” Then, by walking them around and showing them, I see they share same excitement I have. It’s fun.
Q: What is your business’ biggest challenge?
A: The biggest challenge is not having enough room to showcase everyone who comes to the store to sell their items. I keep getting bigger and it’s still not enough room.
Q: Something people might be surprised to learn about you or your business:
A: I never in my wildness dreams thought I would be living in Colorado. Nor having this type of business.
Profile
Business: A Borgata
Address: Colorado Mills, 14500 W. Colfax Ave., Suite 515, Lakewood
Hours: 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Monday through Saturday, 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Sunday
Founded: 2013
Contact: 303-590-1474,
Employees: 3
