(Re)Introducing Threadleaf & Company

One of my company's values is evolution. We are always looking for the next way we can evolve the business. Whether that's eliminating antiques from our mix (some of you may remember when we used to sell them many moons ago), moving to King Street, or opening Penny Post, we don't stand still. As people, we grow, and our priorities and interests change. The same can be said for a business. Do you remember when Banana Republic only sold khakis meant for a safari? Or when Restoration Hardware actually sold hardware? They evolved as the times changed. Some people mourn the good old days, but I celebrate and am endlessly fascinated by companies and people who evolve. That's higher-order thinking in my book.

While I'm sad to report that Threadleaf will be closing their doors next month, I'm thrilled to share with you their next evolution. Nicole McGrew, whom you all have met in our pages here, is embarking on a new broader design for Threadleaf. She is busting out of the confines of her brick and mortar to bring us Threadleaf & Company. In Nicole's words, at Threadleaf & Company…

“We help people embrace sustainable living in multiple forms - personal style, gardening, and greener living - through our shop, workshops, and community events. By focusing on practices and products created with respect for you, our suppliers and our environment, we provide thoughtful tools and an engaging hub for more cultivated living.

A conceptual expansion of the original brick-and-mortar shop, this next chapter brings together key passions: sustainable style, plants and gardening, writing and helping others - and puts it in one inviting place. Welcome in.”

You can read Nicole's statement about Threadeaf's evolution here, but I still wanted to learn more. So, I asked, and Nicole answered!

Amy (A): I love it when people take big chances to realize their dreams. What is the new Threadleaf & Company?

Nicole, Threadleaf & Company (T&C): Threadleaf & Company is the next chapter for Threadleaf. It expands on the original concept of providing stylish and sustainable apparel and goods to now offering goods, services, and workshops. It's an exciting opportunity to engage with the community in additional ways.

A: Monumental shifts like this always come with tons of soul searching. Tell us about your journey. How did you go from there to here?

T&C: I'd always wanted Threadleaf to be "more than a shop" but wasn't sure how that idea would take shape. It was only after really drilling down on what I enjoyed, what differentiated Threadleaf, and, in some cases, what people were actually asking for that led to Threadleaf & Company. The evolution was definitely a process, one that started prior to COVID, but one that also makes sense and feels right.

A: It's been a treat to have you for a neighbor, and I, for one, will be very sorry to see your brick and mortar store go. Will we still be able to find your expertly curated selection of slow fashion staples online? If so, what can we expect to see?

T&C: Yes! Our dedication to finding and highlighting beautifully crafted apparel and goods has not changed. Our online shop is up now at www.threadleafandcompany.com/shop. We have lots of new arrivals coming this spring, including travel-ready pieces from Porto, cool classics from Veronique Miljkovitch, and luxe staples from Evam Eva. We will also have an expanded garden section and surprise collaborations. 

A: I love the name. Adding "& Company" seems so simple, yet it means so much more in this context. Would you speak to what it means to you?

T&C: I know what you mean; it's deceptively simple. We put a lot of thought into the new name, tried numerous variations, and kept coming back to "& Company." For us, it's a reference to the company we keep, the company we invite in, the company we share experiences with, coupled with the idea of cultivating and developing ourselves.  

A: Adventure awaits! What are you looking forward to most?

T&C: I have a few workshops lined up already and am excited to work with individuals and groups in a more hands-on way. 

A: Now that you're giving up the physical space, where can we find you?

T&C: You can always find us at www.threadleafandcompany.com or on Instagram @threadleaf.

Congratulations, Nicole, on your next chapter! I, for one, am so excited to see where this adventure leads!

Amy Rutherford

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Owner Amy Rutherford started Red Barn because she wanted to deliver a service — to provide both old and new in one place. No longer will busy shoppers be limited to reproductions or forced to shop multiple flea markets for the look or gifts they want. The trick in blending old and new, vintage and modern, classic and quirky, is balance. And Amy’s knack for mixing rustic antiques with urban chic has created a look that is both fresh and familiar.

Located in the heart of Old Town Alexandria, Virginia, Penny Post is an independent boutique specializing in custom stationery and wedding invitations. Inspired by the art of personal correspondence, the power of handwritten notes, and the smell of freshly printed stationery, we surround ourselves with quirky, hilarious, and classically beautiful things to make life a little brighter.

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