One Man's Trash is Another Man's Treasure

mom&pop 03

It started as early as he can remember, he would go with his mom to thrift stores, buying things that were cool to him, old skateboards, clothes, knick knacks. “I’m a collector. All my life I had a ton of stuff and the store started out of necessity.” Once Mikey found himself out of a job, he realized this hobby could evolve into something bigger.

Early on, Mikey was renting out a room in the back of a motorcycle shop selling records and vintage clothing. Fast forward 15 years and he now has his very own shop tucked away on City Heights’ east side.

The larger space has allowed him to expand his inventory and continue growing his collection. The shop is overflowing with Southern California nostalgia. Vintage surfboards, an amazing selection of vinyl records, skateboards, guitars, Hawaiian shirts, and vintage skate shoes.

You’ll also find Mikey, an avid surfer and collector who exudes charm and good vibes. He loves what he does and it shows.  

This is still an older mom-and-pop post, but this set was fully taken on film, this was the last time I shot on that Olympus Mju-ii (RIP).

Thanks for reading!

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This is part of an ongoing passion project of mine called mom&pop where I talked to and photograph small businesses that I discover and love. This is an older post that I am transferring onto Substack. If you liked the story be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss the next one (-: