Meet Lysa And Karl Topham | Vintage enthusiasts, entrepreneurs and designers

We had the good fortune of connecting with Lysa And Karl Topham and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Lysa and Karl, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
We have always, since we were kids, loved vintage and more than that, the hunt for cool stuff. Art, design and fashion are things we enjoy and has been our passion. Opening a shop to share the the things we love with others was something we’ve always wanted to do. It’s a way for us to continue to hunt, which is the addiction. We needed an outlet, a place where our treasures could be displayed, appreciated and ultimately find a new home.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Definitely not easy!
For us, sharing things that bring joy is what we do. So really, we’re sharing our hearts. Everything in our shop has made us smile in some way. That has been what we’ve had to focus on. We want everyone who walks in to feel the passion that we feel. We want an emotional response and that is what hear and see every day. Through all the logistics of business, it’s important to remember why you do it and why you love it.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Big Bear is awesome and we love living here! We’re known for snow and ski resorts but summer is my favorite time of year here. The weather is warm but there’s always cool shade and crisp summer breezes. We’re also surrounded with everything SoCal has to offer.
Our week would start of with a day on the lake boating, swimming, surfing and picnicking. The next day we’d off-road through Holcomb valley and hike the trails.
That evening we’d have dinner in village then soak in the hot tub with cocktails.
We’d have to spend a day or in the shop which is always fun. We meet people from all over SoCal and the world! We’d take a drive to eat at LouEddies in Rimforest and play at Santa’s village. There’s usually a fun special event going on in Big Bear every weekend so whatever is going on is where we’re going.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
We have always been fiercely independent and have leaned on each other for strength and support. We ultimately give thanks to God for always guiding us in our decisions.

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