Grinmore, a streetwear store in OKC, is kicking off its community outreach efforts by hosting a series of content creator events to provide networking opportunities and potential job offers.
As the first Black-owned business to pop up in the Plaza District of Oklahoma City, Grinmore’s owners Fred and Danielle Preston take shopping experiences to another level by incorporating the goals of their customers within the business. At Iron Sharpens Iron, which debuted Oct. 22, young creatives gathered to form business and personal relationships. Grinmore’s program featured professional photographers, a DJ, and special treats from local businesses.
“The objective of tonight’s event surrounds one of our brand partners who want to find the dopest creatives in OKC,” said Grinmore’s director Danielle Preston. “Talented people who are not camera shy are the next best thing, and we want to make sure to highlight that.”
As husband-and-wife turned business owners from Florida, the Prestons crafted Grinmore from their love of fashion and entrepreneurial talents. Rather than keep the boutique as a strictly shopping destination, the Prestons continue their cooperation with Solidarity! On the Plaza, which is a partnership of local shop events to ensure exposure for minority groups in the Oklahoma City area.
“We’re not from here, so we’re still learning and growing,” said Danielle Preston. “We want to meet new people who can go out and have a good time with us.”
The mission of Grinmore’s special event is to build relationships with the public. “The most important aspect is to connect with the people of Oklahoma,” said Fred Preston. “Any chance we get to meet the local community is important.”
While the Prestons pulled off Iron Sharpens Iron with a crowd of more than 50 creatives, they said their goals go farther than a one-night experience.
“The best part of working in Grinmore is our bosses, who have been amazing and welcoming people,” said employee Samanta Perez. “They’re teaching us so much, especially since I want to go into the fashion industry. With everything they’ve built [from] where they started, I’m given a sense of what kind of people I want around me in my future workplace.”
Grinmore’s efforts to keep Oklahoma City’s youth engaged are showcased behind the scenes in a multitude of ways.
“Having the ability to be creative with the people that you work with is what makes Grinmore different than a regular part-time job,” said Meg Fall, another employee at Grinmore. “You’re working toward what you actually want to do. It makes me feel really productive.”
With Grinmore’s plans to continue its cooperative efforts with Solidarity! On the Plaza, the public can expect continuous community mixers similar to Iron Sharpens Iron, all while finding the perfect pieces for a streetwear wardrobe.
“Stay tuned with Grinmore for the latest and greatest,” said Fred Preston.
