Exploring Life & Business with Ashley Akyol of Third Eye Thrift

Today we’d like to introduce you to Ashley Akyol.

Hi Ashley, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I grew up shopping solely at second hand stores. Mainly Goodwill and Plato’s closet. Over the years, I noticed the change in second – hand stores and how they were price gouging a lot of their free product. I did some research and realized that I could open up my own shop, and test the rules of supply and demand and affordable pricing.

I wanted to create a space that was more than just affordable trendy clothes, however, I knew before opening my space that it would be a safe space for all, but especially for the outcast, the artist, the musician, the creatives. I started by just opening the shop with clothing and Knick knacks, but evolved it into somewhat of an art gallery, and I’m hoping to grow it more!

I chose the space because of its beautiful gallery style white walls and height. So on the lower levels we have thrift and vintage clothing store, but higher we have art for sale – only by local Mesa artists. We are starting our first monthly art gallery night called Third Eye After Hours, where we have vendors, crafts, music and art all for sale with zero consignment fee.

My goal has always been from the beginning accessibility and affordability to my community and it has been a fun journey so far exploring how to do it and give back.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
No, it has not. I was fully expecting that, though! Being a business owner is never easy – especially a small business owner.

The hardest part of opening a brick and mortar was learning the area, the trends, and the seasons. Summertime for example is usually a slow retail season, especially with the Arizona heat, but because a majority of my clientele are younger (15-35) they are out of school and have more free time to shop!

Mastering the trends, analyzing the data, and then experimenting with restocks and sales is actually a fine science that requires repetitive testing. Some experiments have been successful, some have been failures. Regardless – all very helpful!

There will never be a day an entrepreneur just “gets it”, there’s always room for growth. There is always room to do better, be better, and learn more. So, as someone who grew up a perfectionist who loved to just know – and be done – its been a challenge not getting that instant gratification. There is never a day everything is complete or done – there is ALWAYS more out there to do!

But, on the other end, it’s what makes being an entrepreneur so exciting and thrilling. I am never bored!

Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Third Eye Thrift is a blend of retail thrift shopping, vintage clothing shopping, and an art gallery. The entire store is curated and created by the employees with actually very little say from the owner (me). I personally hired my staff based on their creative vision and persona. Instead of creating a one – fits – all job, like buyer or cashier, I met with them during interviews and crafted specialty positions for each one I felt would be good for the company. So, the store is very much a blend of all the aesthetics of the employees. We do follow trends, but we also have lots of unique outmoded pieces.

The goal is that there is “something for everyone” who walks through our doors. From home made crafts and jewelry, some small furniture pieces, art installations to just look at if not in the mood to shop, as well as friendly employees and atmosphere that may brightens anyone’s day.

We are most proud of our values of inclusivity and love. We are a place that has no stand for hate or bullying. Anyone that comes in will be able to find attire that they enjoy, and have the help from employees in styling or self expression. Self – expression is one of the most beautiful parts of life.

What was your favorite childhood memory?
I loved traveling with my family. I was very blessed for a time period where I was able to travel internationally to spend time with family overseas, as well learn the ropes at a young age how manufacturing works behind the scenes. My distant family operates multiple factories in Turkey that produce the luxury towels and robes sold in most department stores and brands like Ralph Lauren/Tommy Hilfiger. My dad owned a textile business up until 2008 and so I was able to really learn and watch how to operate a business from a young age.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://thirdeyethrift.com
• Instagram: https://instagram.com/3rdeyethrift
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/3eyethrift

Image Credits
I will provide pictures later!