Everything is second hand, hand-picked, or hand made,” says Jess Eggert (they/them), the founder and owner of Buttermonkey Vintage & Arts in Rochester. They describe it as a “funky boho” curated shop and art space with offerings that include vintage clothes, vinyl records, art, jewelry and accent furniture that Eggert has refinished and repainted in vibrant colors to give them new life.
Eggert, who is a LGBTQ+ artist, says they wanted to create a fun experience for shoppers and to have a space that is welcoming of all. “I am a member of the queer community and there are not enough safe spaces for us,” Eggert says. “This is a safe place for allies and us.” Eggert notes they made sure merchandise and displays are spaced so the store is handicap accessible.
Eggert stresses that Buttermonkey, which opened Nov. 30, is not a consignment shop but is a curated, affordable vintage store. “I look for things that are fun and kitschy, that feel like you can’t get this somewhere else,” they say.
Buttermonkey features items from makers and local artists and includes a lounge for patrons with a vintage arcade game, couches, and free drinks and snacks. Eggert also has studio space in the back of the shop where they refinish furniture and plan to offer classes and events, such as a gender affirming clothing swaps and gender affirming haircuts from a drag queen.
Eggert says they always dreamed to have their own vintage shop and had amassed many vintage items that they loved over the years. “I’m either going to become a hoarder or open a vintage store,” Eggert jokes.
Eggert says customers enjoy hearing the stories behind the items in the store, adding, “People shopping here are so sweet and so vocal about how much they love the store.”
