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Business Owner of the Month: Truffle Pig Trading Company

4/19/2023

3 Comments

 
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Meet our April Business Owner of the Month, Rissa Conway. She came into owning a business by taking a huge leap of faith! She doesn't have a retail background, but a fierce passion for fashion, resale, and consignment. We think you will enjoy her story and how she came to open and own Truffle Pig Trading Company.

Conway grew up in Southern Oregon, but her Bend roots started when she was born. In the late 1970's, her father was an English teacher and COCC tennis coach. Her grandparents also lived in Bend and Conway spent much of her childhood visiting them and Bend.

"I have been visiting and shopping in Downtown Bend since I was a kid," Conway said. "I always looked forward to it!"

Conway attended film school at the University of California Santa Cruz where she met her husband, Stephen. After they graduated, they moved to Tumalo in 2013. They have since moved to the Old Farm District where they live in a farmhouse with the love of their lives, Chido, their rescue dog. Conway worked as a corporate consultant in Leadership Development where she worked with executive teams all over the country.

Fast forward to the pandemic, both Rissa and her husband's career came to a screeching halt in March 2020 when the shutdown began. All jobs they had lined up for the year were canceled indefinitely. Conway took on a job as a remote customer service person, which she says soon took the sparkle out of her.

"By May 2020, Stephen was in full support of a 'full send' on giving Truffle Pig a try. We figured at that point, there wasn't much more to lose," Conway said.

The pair dove in headfirst to create Conway's dream boutique. Conway said they became a good pair as they each took on a part of the business the other doesn't like doing.

"I'm the magician and he is the mathematician," Conway joked. "I am so happy to say that through the amazing support of the Bend community and many Downtown Bend business owners championing our shop and sending people our way, we made it through the pandemic and are coming up on three years!"

The community support is what encouraged Conway to open the boutique Downtown in the first place.

"I love contributing to our community with a consignment shop hidden in the heart of Downtown," Conway said.

Truffle Pig Trading Company has been a unique addition to Downtown.

"I think what makes the store so special is how we curate all the treasures that go on the floor," Conway said. "Bend is such an affluent community and we get so many amazing things to choose from our thousands of consignors! We get clothing brands and home goods from all around the world that you can't find to purchase anywhere else in Bend."

Many shoppers and locals have found how sustainable Truffle Pig Trading Company is for their wallets and closets. Not only is the store sustainable for shoppers, but also for the planet.

"Many people don't realize that the manufacture of clothes, shoes, belts, and accessories - otherwise known as textiles - is the second largest polluting industry in the world after oil and gas," Conway said.

Another great thing about the boutique is the staff does the digging for you! You don't have to go through endless amounts of items and clothes to find what you're looking for.

"For me, clothing can be an artistic expression and I want to share the fun, creative confidence that one can experience when they feel truly fabulous in an outfit," Conway said. "We try to create and curate a space for people to play with fashion and feel excited and inspired to be whoever they feel like being!"

So, next time you're shopping online, think about stopping by Truffle Pig Trading Company!

"Local businesses keep our community connected and encourage us to leave our house and have an in-person experience with other locals," Conway said. "I still believe that the tactile experience of getting to feel material, see the color of something not through a screen, try things on and pursue local businesses with loved ones just can't be replaced. Shopping local also helps keep money circulating in our own Bend economy, creates jobs and promotes community. I get so inspired when I see how beautifully curated all the Downtown businesses are. They stock their shops with treasures that speak to them and our Bend way of life!"

Truffle Pig Trading Co.
934 NW Gasoline Alley
Website
Follow them on Instagram
3 Comments

Business Owner of the Month: Bend Electric Bikes

3/13/2023

5 Comments

 
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On Brooks Alley sits a sweet mom and pop shop that keeps rolling through the decades as Bend changes. This business continues to keep us geared up for what’s next and meets all our needs. Meet our Business Owners of the Month, Kathy and Sterling McCord. They own and run Bend Electric Bikes.  
 
They opened their business in 2008 in a 500 square foot space in the Box Factory before moving to Downtown Bend. “We love being part of Bend’s Downtown Community. It’s the OG of Bend,” Kathy said. “We love the synergy and uniqueness of all our awesome neighbors. It’s also fun to ride our bikes into work and to start group rides from our front door. ​Then there’s the Farmers Market, Community Tree lighting, Apres-Ski Bashes, First Fridays... we love all of it!” ​
​Kathy moved to Bend in 1993 after completing school at Appalachian State University in North Carolina. Her first job was at the Westside Bakery. She went on to co-found Bend Take-Out Express in 1995. After selling the business she used her counseling degree to work with dislocated workers at Central Oregon Intergovernmental Council.  
 
Sterling arrived in Bend a few years before his future wife, Kathy. His first job was grooming at Mt. Bachelor. He later became certified in Sustainable Building while working as a general contractor. When he discovered electric conversion bike kits, he was sold! He knew that electric bikes were the future.  
 
“We like to say we are part of the solution,” Kathy said. “We obviously can’t sell every ebike that is out (nor do we want to), but due to our reputation and experience we have access to ebikes that meet our high mark for being ahead of trends, known brands, built with premium components, safe and durable.”  
 
Be sure to follow Bend Electric Bikes for new items coming to the store. The McCord’s tease and say they have a lot happening. “Hint: more show room, more service, more cargo, more rides!”  
 
Kathy and Sterling have seen Bend through the decades. They have seen the city grow, change and adapt. “When we arrived the population was around 20,000 and now 30+ years later and with two nearly grown children, the small town has grown into a medium-sized city with real city elements. Now there’s traffic and cars everywhere. We also see more bike riding and walking,” Kathy said. “The one thing that hasn’t changed is how much those of us who live here, love it!”  
 
​Visit Bend Electric Bikes
Online 
869 NW Wall Street Suite #104
​Follow them on Instagram

5 Comments

New Business in Downtown Bend: PaddleBoardOregon

7/8/2022

90 Comments

 
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PaddleBoardOregon is excited to launch a new location in the heart of downtown Bend! They are located between North Soles Footwear of Bend and Title Nine. They have a beautiful selection of paddleboards for sale. You will have the opportunity to rent SUP equipment, with the perfect launch sight at Drake Park. 

"Adventure is our middle name," Owner, Lori Skiles said. "We all know that summers in Bend are short lived. We're here serving up good vibes and plenty paddle adventures. Join us on the water, won't you?" 


Start your adventure with PaddleBoardOregon by booking a unique paddle tour around Bend and beyond. There are sunset and star-gazing paddles, date-night paddle and hammock in Drake Park or try your balance with one of the Paddle Strong Classes, which is a beautiful fusion of yoga and fitness on the paddleboard. 

"Yes, that's right.. a super fun workout focused on flexibility and core strength,"
Skiles said. 

PaddleBoardOregon
Between 800 and 812 NW Wall Street 
(503) 888-5624
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90 Comments

Executive Director Job in Downtown Bend

6/15/2022

52 Comments

 
Description:
The Executive Director is responsible for planning, organizing, and directing the daily activities and operations of the Downtown Association. Send applications here. 
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Qualifications:
• Not required but preferred, at least 2 years’ experience managing a Main Street program, economic or community development initiatives, or relevant experience.
• Not required but preferred, proven successful experience in nonprofit administration or leadership.
• Familiarity with the Main Street Approach to downtown revitalization
• Experience in one or more of the following areas: business/economic development, city/urban planning, marketing, historic preservation, community organizing, or volunteer management
• Experience and interest in fundraising; especially working with a board of directors to develop and implement successful fundraising strategies.
• Experience fostering and maintaining strong relationships with civic leaders and a variety of community stakeholders.
• Outstanding communication skills and the ability to communicate effectively with a wide variety of stakeholders.
• Experience managing and motivating volunteers.
• Strategic thinker, problem solver and community collaboration builder.
• Self‐motivated and action‐oriented.
• Strong writing skills.
• Tech‐savvy with facility in MS Office applications, Dropbox, social media, website content management, and ability to troubleshoot basic IT issues.
• Bachelor degree is preferred, though experience in program development and fundraising may be considered in lieu of a degree.
• Sense of humor
52 Comments

Family Business in Downtown Bend: RE/MAX Key Properties

6/7/2022

179 Comments

 
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Downtown Bend has their own Property Brothers. Meet Ryan and Tim Buccola. They bought RE/MAX in 2015. 
"Our father has been a broker our whole lives, so we were raised this way; he was a fantastic mentor," Tim Buccola said. "Our sister is a broker and office owner in the Bay Area and our mother, Cande, is CFO of RE/MAX Key Properties in Oregon. All this to say, it runs in the family; it runs deep in our genes."
While they have had the business in downtown for the past seven years, they find the people to be their favorite part of their business. "We have the honor of working with an incredible group of successful, smart, and aring brokers," Ryan Buccola said. "To be able to show up every day and do what we love together as a team - it's awesome." 

RE/MAX Key Properties
431 NW Franklin Avenue, Suite #3
541-728-0033 
179 Comments

Family Business in Downtown Bend: Revolvr & Evrgreen

5/24/2022

53 Comments

 
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Meet spouses, Christine and Jon Davis. They are the owners of Revolvr Menswear and Evrgreen Clothing. The businesses started in Bozeman, Montana before the Davis' brought these eclectic, unique stores to Bend. Revolvr has been in downtown since 2017 and Evrgreen opened in March of this year. 

"People would constantly come into Revolvr and ask where there was a store like us, but for women," Christine Davis said. "Now, they can come right next door and shop! Bend already had a great retail offering for women, but as the town grows and evolves, so should the businesses that serve it." 
While building this brother-sister business, the Davis' have a lot they have enjoyed about being part of Downtown Bend. "I love building a team and culture, and meeting so many people from all walks of life and dressing them for their everyday or their adventures," Davis said. "Finding something that makes them feel confident and beautiful, and providing a space to feel inspired to do so is what we aim to do!" 

Revolvr Menswear 
945 NW Wall Street, Suite 100
541-647-2627

Evrgreen Clothing
945 NW Wall Street
541-797-9314
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53 Comments

Family Business in Downtown Bend: Bonta Natural Artisan Gelato

5/19/2022

51 Comments

 
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Today's family business highlight is Bonta Natural Artisan Gelato and their owners! Meet Jeff and Juli Labhart. Bonta has been in downtown for seven years. Their inspiration to create a gelato shop came from the many tastes and experiences backpacking around the world. 
"We spent two years in our garage developing recipes and honing our craft until we decided to open up a retail shop in downtown Bend, because there was a need for all-natural, artisan ice cream in Bend," Jeff Labhart said. 
Since opening their shop in 2015, Bonta and the Labhart's have taken the Gelato world in Central Oregon by storm. They are ranked number one place to eat in Bend on Google, TripAdvisor, and Yelp. Jeff believes a lot of this high praise comes from their customers who love them and they love back. 
"We have also worked hard by creating an amazing product nad making our own downtown Bonta Scoop Shop more of an experience than just your average ice cream shop," Labhart said. "We also love to hear the crazy stories from our customers like people asking for Bonta Gelato literally while giving birth, how it brightened their day after a surgery, or even a family from Boise who named their child Bonta after us!" 

Bonta Natural Artisan Gelato
920 NW Bond Street, Suite 108
541-306-6606
51 Comments

Family Business in Downtown Bend: Great Harvest Bread Company

5/11/2022

74 Comments

 
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 Our Family run businesses in Downtown Bend continues. Today, we meet the family behind Great Harvest Bread Company. Kristi and Jeremy Testerman bought the company in 2018. 
"Jeremy and I always wanted to own a business together, but weren't sure what we wanted to do! We were on vacation, Jeremy walked out and said, 'Want to bake bread with me?' and here we are," Kristi Testerman said. 
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Baking was something Kristi grew up with. "My mom used to bake all the time for other people," she said. "Baking is such a labor of love." It has become such a family ordeal that their kids have joined in on the fun. "My son loves slicing bread and my daughter has helped raise money for the Humane Society with our dog treats," Testerman said. 

The team at Great Harvest Bread Company is a close-knit family away from home. "We've been through so much together," Testerman added. "I hope they stay around for a long time." With a supportive family at home and at work, Kristi said it makes her life fun. 
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Great Harvest Bread Company
835 NW Bond Street, Suite 1
541-389-2888
74 Comments

Family Businesses in Downtown: RSM Investments Inc.

5/10/2022

65 Comments

 
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Meet the Mikesell Family! While running RSM Investments Inc. the family also owns six buildings in downtown. "Our goal is to maintain the historical integrity of Downtown while improving our buildings to keep Downtown a favorite destination for locals and visitors to Bend," McKenna Mikesell said.  
Here's a list of businesses' owned by the Mikesell Family: 
  • 900 NW Wall Street 
  • 920 NW Bond Street 
  • 901 NW Bond Street
  • 25 Minnesota Avenue
  • 856 Bond Street
  • 1030 Bond Street
The family has finished historical restoration at 901 Bond Street and plans to continue to do so on the second floor at 856 Bond Street where high end office space is available. 

RSM Investments Inc. 
920 NW Bond Street
541-979-8005 
65 Comments

Family Businesses in Downtown: Wren & Wild

5/8/2022

79 Comments

 
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Throughout the next few weeks, we will be introducing businesses' in Downtown Bend that are family run. Since today is Mother's Day, we thought we'd start with a business that has been in downtown for six years and is run by a mother-daughter duo. Meet Mandy Butera and Carly Olinger of Wren & Wild.

The store provides clean beauty products to help you and the environment stay beautiful. "Carly and I were working in the conventional cosmetic world and we wanted to find a way to open a business that carried all clean, non-toxic beauty brands that were cruelty-free and working towards sustainability in product and packaging," Mandy Butera said. "We wanted our clients to trust and love the products that they are using on their bodies." 
Earlier this year, the store has grown. Wren & Wild expanded their location to offer a larger space for their employees and customers to find what products work best for them through hair classes and make-up tutorials. "We get such a kick out of helping our clients find the perfect skincare routine and makeup," Butera said. "It feels so good when we know we have made someone feel good about their complexion and have started a long-term relationship with us." 
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Wren and Wild
112 NW Minnesota Avenue
541-480-3252
79 Comments
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​Downtown Bend Business Association (DBBA)

DBBA: Our mission is to improve the economic vitality by enhancing the experience, image and lifestyle of Downtown Bend.
© COPYRIGHT 2018. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
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Downtownbend@gmail.com
​541-788-3628
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