Joy to the world! In this exclusive Go Downtown Kenosha Magazine interview, we sit down and chat with the lovely owner of Lulu Birds, Joy Schweitzer Ermert.
Q. For someone who’s not familiar with Lulu Birds, can you portray what your shop is about?
A. While our main focus is on the vintage and antique variety, we also have amazing up-cycled and hand crafted pieces such as furniture build from architectural salvage and super cool lamps made from antique items such as old cameras and fire extinguishers. We also have a fun boutique area with great gift ideas and more personal items.
Q. Who influenced you to start up your own business?
A. My grandmother owned her own business (Helen’s Drapery in uptown) for many years. She was my biggest influence. I worked and sold at other vintage shops before opening my own, every one of those women were great influences and inspirations to build up my confidence to open my own business.
Q. How did you come up with the name Lulu Birds?
A. Lulu Bird was one of our dogs. She was a quirky and beautiful rescue we adored. She lives on now as the namesake for my business.
Q. Can you tell us about the man behind the most powerful and successful woman in Downtown? AKA Kevin
A. Haha you’re funny! My hubby is by far the most patient and kind hearted person I know. He’s Lulu Birds biggest fan and is always ready to lend a hand around the shop.
Q. What makes Lulu Birds so unique?
A. Our unique and talented vendors of course! We have an amazing group of individuals that bless our community by sharing their talents and creativity through our humble storefront.
Q. How does Lulu Birds get ready for the busy holiday season?
A. We love to amp up for the holidays! We add new items to our boutique for fun and unique gift grabs. Our vendors also bring in the best locally made seasonal decor! We also have a wide variety of furniture for all of your entertaining needs, from dining sets and buffets to bars/bar carts and dressers for that spare bedroom that needs updating before out of town company arrives.
Q. What are the biggest challenges you’ve faced in running your business?
A. The ever changing economy is the biggest challenge we face today.
Q. How long has Lulu Birds been operating?
A. We opened in April of 2015, so we are coming up on 9 years.
Q. How does Lulu Birds stay competitive in the vintage furniture/antique/gift shop business?
A. I never like to say we’re in competition with anyone. All small businesses and owners struggle. I hope we all win. We do try to be consistent in offering a wide variety of home furnishings and decor by our outstanding vendors.
Q. Could you share a memorable success story or an inspiring moment from your journey as a small business owner?
A. Lulu birds has had 5 women that started as vendors in our shop go on to open their own brick and mortar businesses. I feel pretty darn good about that!
Q. Why is it so important to SHOP LOCAL?
A. One of the biggest reasons for me is the flavor or personality local shops bring to their community. Any town USA has most of the popular big box stores, people don’t need to travel to your town for them. But they do travel for the unique small businesses. And that brings revenue into the community that STAYS in the community. Always shop small, whenever you can!
Q. Do you have any particular criteria when choosing vendors?
A. I just look for quality artisans that represent a variety of styles and are committed to their craft.
Q. What can future customers expect when they shop at Lulu Birds for the first time?
A. They can expect to find amazing treasures, one of a kind gift-ables and exceptional customer service.
Q. What makes the perfect gift for someone at Lulu Birds?
A. I’d say a gift certificate. Then you know the recipient will love what they get!
Q. How often do you get new furniture in?
A. Every single week, and sometimes multiple times a week.
Q. What is next for Lulu Birds?
A. We’re hoping to sticking around and provide our patrons with affordable quality home furnishings for a long time. But we definitely need the support of shop local heroes to make sure that happens!
Q. What do you love about owning a business in downtown Kenosha?
A. Many things. The area. The camaraderie with other owners. How easy it is to walk our Downtown between restaurants and storefronts. The list goes on.
WEB EXTRA!
We decided to get to know Joy a little better, so we asked her a few random questions for fun!
Q. Favorite band?
A. Right now I’m loving Tyler Childers
Q. Favorite snack?
A. Cheese. On Wisconsin!
Q. Classic car or muscle car?
A. Classic
Q. Bloody Mary or mimosa?
A. Depends on my mood
Q. Cats or dogs?
A. Dogs but I love all the animals
Q. Pizza or tacos?
A. Tacos!
Q. Favorite holiday?
A. New Years Eve
Q. Favorite TV show ever?
A. Game of Thrones
Q. Last movie you’ve watched in the theater?
A. Indiana Jones
Q. I heard, now correct me if I’m wrong, you’ve seen the complete original A-Team tv series?
A. Not by choice. But all marriages come with sacrifice.
Lulu Birds is located at 5716 6th Avenue
Follow Lulu Birds on FACEBOOK & INSTAGRAM
Q&A and photos by Donny Stancato
Check out the current Go Downtown Kenosha Magazine CLICK HERE
Follow the Go Downtown Kenosha Magazine on Facebook & Instagram godowntownkenosha.com
For everything Kenosha see visitkenosha.com
(This article first appeared in Vol 16. #4 2023/24 Go Downtown Kenosha Magazine)
Learn more about Joy and Lulu Birds by listening to her appearance on the Ktown Conncets Podcast! Listen on your podcast provider! APPLE PODCAST • SPOTIFY
