Thrifting to tuition: SUU students open small business

Starting a small business at ages 18 and 19 is a challenge for most, but for SUU students Sophia Uchman and Rey Alexander, it was the perfect opportunity to fund their schooling.

Last summer, Uchman and Alexander were hanging out with their group of friends, passing the time by crafting. They would get together and make anything, from clay keychains to upcycled clothing. When the two girls were brainstorming ideas on how to pay for college, inspiration struck, and they decided to open a small business to sell their creations. Uchman and Alexander turned their hobbies into a profitable organization that now pays for a portion of their tuition.

The small business, named Open Closet, now sells handmade creations and upcycled clothing every other week at the Festival City Farmers Market. When school feels suffocating and monotonous, Alexander and Uchman bring whimsy back into their lives through their small business. They use Open Closet as a creative outlet, finding happiness through their products.

The main item at Open Closet’s booth is embroidered clothing. The girls thrift clothing to reimagine and upcycle into original products as a fight against consumerism and fast fashion. Their clothing features funky, eye-catching designs that draw in customers through their individuality. Not one product is the same, which is what pulls in their customers.

Though the main feature is clothing, Open Closet supplies countless creations, including terrariums, plants, accessories and embroidered clothing. Patchwork clothing and plant sun catchers are Alexander and Uchman’s favorites to make.

At Open Closet, there is sure to be something for everyone. Shop from Open Closet at the Festival City Farmers Market on Feb. 21 and follow them on Instagram for more updates.

Author: Emelia Montgomery
Photos by Emelia Montgomery
Editor: Briar Adams
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