Keep Vermont Weird, LLC has expanded their tiny store at 33 Church Street in Burlington, VT. It is now called Vermont Republik Home of Keep Vermont Weird. Mike and Stephanie Olson, owners of Keep Vermont WeirdTM are excited about the expansion, which takes their space from super tiny to just a little bigger than tiny.
The quirky store on the top of Church Street may be really small, but it’s big on personality. Customers are greeted by a giant cow mural displaying an image taken by local photographer Sarah Lavoie and a mural depicting a picture of Church Street from the early 1900’s. Shelves are stocked with t-shirts, pint glasses, mugs, hoodies and more. “We feel very lucky to have the cutest little store on Church Street.” says Stephanie. “It’s a great location for us because our message resonates not only with locals, but also with tourists who are drawn to Vermont because it is so unique and special.”
They have stared carrying other Vermont themed designs in addition to their successful Keep Vermont Weird brand, so the switch to Vermont Repulik made sense. “Vermont Republic is what this area was called from 1777 to 1791 just before Vermont joined the United States as the 14th state. It was a very transitional time, but also a defining time for Vermont,” says Mike.
Mike designed the first Keep Vermont Weird t-shirt over 10 years ago and they have been selling in local retailers throughout the state ever since. The original logo featuring the outline of Vermont became so popular that he decided to create additional designs. Water bottles, hats, baby onsies, magnets, key chains and shot glasses are just a few of the newer products and with the expansion the duo looks forward to hopefully partnering with other local businesses.
Keep Vermont Weird celebrates the eclectic vibe, strong sense of community and ultimately the infectious pride that people take in being Vermonters. Locally owned businesses play a big role in that unique Vermont vibe, so “Support Local” appears on many of their products. You can support local by visiting the Vermont Republik store at 33 Church Street, checking out their website, www.keepvermontweird.com, and finding them in locally owned retailers around the state. For store hours and further information call 802-355-9426.
