CLEVELAND — We're just a few days away from Christmas and if you’re still in need of some gifts, there’s a pop-up shop in Cleveland's Hingetown neighborhood full of handmade items.
Contrast High took over the new Church + State space located just off of Detroit Avenue for the pop-up shop.
“We want people to come in and actually experience our brand and everything that we do," said Jenna Conforti, creative director for Contrast High."
The pop-up is selling wearable art and one-of-a-kind pieces.
”We have paintings, we have apparel, we have coffee mugs," said Gina Scordos.
Scordos and Conforti are the brains behind the holiday shop. Both women said they wanted to take shopping offline and provide an experience for shoppers. The pair curated the space to inspire creativity -- especially for local artists who may be struggling due to the pandemic.
“You have to keep doing what you love and keep sharing what you are with the rest of the community," said Conforti.
Scordos believes shopping and supporting local - especially from artists - creates a more personal experience.
“We can share with them, you know, why we created this, what was in our minds and why was it important for us to create. The Contrast High + Friends t-shirt as an example," said Scordos.
Scordos said sales from the long-sleeved shirt, created by 15 local artists, will benefit Toys for Tots. Their goal is to give 150 children toys this holiday season.
Conforti said she believes shopping local will help many recover from a tough year.
"It brings the community together, it's community development. By shopping local you're investing back into the people who make up the community, which is always important," she said.
The pop-up gift shop will be open until Wednesday, Dec. 23 from 12-8 p.m. at 2818 Church Way.
