Exploring Life & Business with Christine Creswell of Death Trip Vintage

Today we’d like to introduce you to Christine Creswell.

Hi Christine, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
In 2018, I embarked on a journey that led me to embrace a new path – buying and selling vintage clothes. Driven by a desire for change, I ventured into this world and soon found myself immersed in the beauty of nostalgia. As our business gained momentum, we expanded beyond the confines of digital transactions. Pop-ups, swap meets, and local art shows became our canvas, allowing us to share our passion directly with the community. The year 2020 was poised to be a milestone with the opening of our first brick-and-mortar store. Yet, the pandemic, a challenge none of us could foresee, compelled us to postpone that dream. March of 2023 saw the realization of our aspirations at 3940 4th Ave, a physical embodiment of DeathTrip’s growth over the past 5 years. This space stands not just as a store but as a testament to our evolution. Vintage remains our heart, but alongside it, we curate eclectic second-hand pieces, designer wear, and couture fashion. We envision fashion as a bridge beyond gender norms, a realm where self-expression knows no boundaries. Every person deserves to feel confident, and as someone who has navigated the world as plus-size, I understand the challenges. Vintage treasures that flatter all shapes and sizes grace our collection, aligning with our commitment to sustainability, inclusivity, and empowerment. Our collection, ever-changing yet timeless, dances between seasons and contemporary trends. This store is more than a business; it’s an artistic extension of myself. Every piece is a choice, each selection a statement – a pledge to quality spanning vintage, couture, and designer realms. 

Our doors are open from Wednesday to Sunday, 12 pm to 7 pm, with the hope of expanding our availability in the future. The essence of DeathTrip extends beyond garments; it’s a philosophy. We facilitate Buy/Trade, inviting customers to share their unique vintage or designer gems for store credit or cash. For those seeking guidance, our personal styling and wardrobe creation services await, each appointment crafted to celebrate individuality. Professional styling and costume rentals stand as testaments to our commitment to aiding others in embracing their essence. All of this merely an email away at hello@deathtripvtg.com. 

We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
From a one-person act, DeathTrip has metamorphosed into a collaborative endeavor. However, I, as the founder, continue to do multiple roles – sourcing, HR, marketing, and engaging with clients on the sales floor. This multifaceted engagement is demanding, yet I strive for equilibrium. The autonomy of entrepreneurship is undeniable, but it demands discipline. The allure of escaping the mundane 9-5 can overshadow the sacrifices: weekends and evenings ceded to the cause, unpredictability woven into each day. My journey as a small business owner unfolds as a rhythm, shifting between intense exertion and rewarding respite. This perpetual cycle mirrors the evolution of the business in tandem with personal growth. Harmony between work and life nurtures tranquility and alignment, while imbalance begets chaos. Amid the bustling tempo, it’s vital to decelerate and attune oneself to personal needs, not solely catering to business demands. 

Thanks – so, what else should our readers know about Death Trip Vintage?
Death Trip Vintage is a San Diego-based, queer, and women-owned vintage clothing boutique. We believe fashion transcends gender, and our mission is to make you look and feel your best while promoting sustainability and inclusivity. Our curated collection seamlessly blends timeless pieces with the latest fashion trends, featuring vintage, couture, and designer fashion of the highest quality. 

We offer a range of personal and professional styling services, including special event styling, wardrobe refresh, and styling for photo shoots, television, or film. Our expertise extends to diverse styling needs, ensuring you always look your best. 

At Death Trip Vintage, we celebrate diversity and self-expression, making fashion accessible to all. Join us on a journey of empowerment through style. Contact us to explore our unique fashion offerings and styling services. Discover your authentic self through fashion with Death Trip Vintage. 

Can you talk to us about how you think about risk?
Among the many risks our business has undertaken, our new brick-and-mortar has been our biggest leap of faith yet. The inception of Death Trip Vintage started in 2018 with pop-up shops selling exclusively on Instagram. Then, in 2020, we expanded and started operating out of a tiny 200-square-foot studio space relying online and appointment-based transactions. Now, fast forward to 2023; our current expansion stands out as the most pivotal gamble. 

The decision to expand was not taken lightly. It meant overcoming significant challenges, including extensive renovation, staffing, and the monumental task of transferring our entire inventory. Yet, despite the trials, this venture has proven to be immensely rewarding. 

Embracing this larger canvas allowed us to welcome both familiar and new patrons into a space that was meticulously conceived with care. The privilege of being woven into the vibrant fabric of the Hillcrest community, where we offer an inclusive haven for shopping, surpasses all the hardships we faced. 

Our values, rooted in sustainability, empowerment, and inclusivity, have resonated profoundly in the heart of our Hillcrest community. The risks we’ve taken have not only shaped our journey but have also become a testament to the resilience and determination that define DeathTrip Vintage as we continue to evolve and grow. 

Contact Info:

• Website: www.deathtripvtg.com
• Instagram: www.instagram.com/deathtripvtg/
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/deathtripvtg/

Image Credits
Sabrina Lynn Photography
Erica G Photography
Madeline Barr
Heather McCall