Summer Camp In Ojai
Mike and Rachel set their sights on this abandoned midcentury gas station just a few short months ago. With a specific aesthetic and ideas, they’ve created a really wonderful, unique concept shop that brings a little something different to the small town of Ojai. Not only do they offer custom framing, but they also have candles, jewelry, clothing, vintage wares, and paper goods. And the location adds to the charm — this is truly one of the coolest repurposed buildings I’ve ever seen. Welcome to Ojai!
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Name/Title: Rachel and Mike Graves of Summer Camp
Launch date: November 9, 2013
Inspiration for opening: The shop combines our love for mid-century design, hand crafted goods and the outdoors. We had been dreaming of opening our own shop for years, and when we saw the “for lease” sign at the old gas station in Ojai we knew it was the right fit.
Merchandise source: Besides our vintage goods, we purchase handcrafted items from local American makers. We carry a range of goods, from goat milk and beer soap from a farm in Fillmore, to handcrafted leather bags from a workshop in Maine. We also search flea markets, thrift shops and estate sales for unique vintage items.
Best selling item: We sell out of the the amazing soy candles by PF Candle Co as soon as we stock them. They are based out of downtown Los Angeles, in the arts district. The Teakwood and Tobacco is everyone’s favorite, but we burn the Campfire while working at the shop and the Sugar and Spice at home (to make it smell like freshly baked cookies).
Your favorite item: We love our goods from Make Smith Leather Co. It’s a family-owned business run by Steven Soria, a third generation leather craftsman, based in Santa Barbara. We carry his wallets and key chains and even had one embossed with our initials.
Favorite store (other than your own): Iron and Resin in downtown Ventura is a store after our own heart. Fashioned after an old repair garage, they carry a great selection of handcrafted goods inspired by the rugged outdoors.
Thanks, Rachel and Mike!