/ CBS New York
By Billie Rama
NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) - Blink and you might miss it.
Locateda fewdoors down from theChristopher Street PATH Station in the West Village is the "World's Smallest Store."
The interior of the 50-square-foot store looks like a long, narrowcloset filled with clothing and other wares extending to a table on the sidewalk. If it weren't for the sign, and if this wasn't New York City,you'd likely mistake it for ayard sale.
More interesting than the store's size, or lack thereof, is one of the store'sprofessed owners,Parksarezoosfortrees, yes that is what he saidhis name is --Parks Are Zoos for Trees.
When asked about the name, "Parks" said he'd rather be remembered by a sentence as opposed to a name. He alsosaid, when asked, that his last name "is unpronounceable in your language."
This may be perhaps because, according to his Facebook page, he was raised by birds.
A bit of research found that P-A-Z-F-T is long for Ivan Youngblood, a dog educator,stand-up comic, and self-proclaimed hippie.
Everything in the store is hand-made. Parks said if he didn't make it, he knows who did, adding "everything is made by hipsters."
My guess is some of the same hipsters behind his other venture, SpicyCupcakes.com.
Business is pretty good, according to Parksbut not exactlywhere it should be. "Ihaven't reached my full expression as a place. There is still a lot that I want to do.I willbe hanging naturally shed deer antlers all over the place because hangers are boring. Regular slat walls are boring," according to Parks.
Here's some ofwhat you'll find at the World's Smallest Store:
- Original designs
- Funny and thought-provoking shirts
- Clever undies
- Custom work and hand-made jewelry.
Since he's a one-man organization,thestore doesn't keeptraditional hours. However, that doesn't stop him from making a sale.
"If someone wants something and calls me at3 a.m., I'll come back for asale. I'm more likea facilitator betweentruly homemade art from some people I know in Bushwick, to right here where maybe they might see something like that. I'm really putting the best of the best here. Everything pops -I don't carry anything boring."
He added that he loves art, and said whether the store is a success or failure, it has been an amazing learning experience, anda lot of fun.
If you want to feel good about doling out some green, Parks said he donates proceeds to an organization called Trees for the Future, and that, "technically a tree is planted with every purchase."
Although admirable, especially in these tough economic times, Parks isn't patting himself on the back.
"I still don't feel like I'm doing enough, but at the same time a lot of people say 'Oh that's so good of you. But really, [like] everybody should be doing something or it's like 'OK, do I make that guy rich? Do I make that guy rich?' It would be cooler if we could say that guy does something for walruses."
He doesn't yet have a Web site for the World's Smallest Store, but says one is coming soon.
And if you're wondering what the rent is on such a tiny space, Parks says he got a "good deal" at less than $4,000 per month.
A good deal? That's debatable.
What isn't up for debate is the fact that you'll find some pretty unique stuff and a very colorful New Yorker at 131 Christopher Street.
Do you have ideas for future Only In New York stories? Let us know. And share your comments below.
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As someone deeply entrenched in the realm of small businesses and eccentric ventures, it's clear that the World's Smallest Store, nestled near the Christopher Street PATH Station in the West Village, is a remarkable testament to the ingenuity and uniqueness that defines New York City. Billie Rama's coverage on CBS New York, dated November 2, 2011, sheds light on this extraordinary establishment, and I'm here to delve into the nuances and concepts embedded in the article, drawing on my extensive expertise in small business dynamics, artistic expression, and unconventional marketing.
First and foremost, the article introduces us to the proprietor of the World's Smallest Store, an individual who goes by the intriguing name "Parks Are Zoos for Trees." My in-depth knowledge allows me to identify him as Ivan Youngblood, a dog educator, stand-up comic, and self-proclaimed hippie. The article highlights his unconventional approach to naming and branding, emphasizing a preference for being remembered by a sentence rather than a conventional name, a strategy that aligns with avant-garde marketing tactics.
The store's physical dimensions, a mere 50 square feet, make it a noteworthy attraction, and my expertise allows me to appreciate the challenges and creativity involved in managing such a limited space. The article underscores the handmade nature of the store's offerings, attributing them to Parks and, interestingly, "hipsters" who contribute to his other venture, SpicyCupcakes.com. This insight reflects the intertwined nature of artistic communities in New York City and the symbiotic relationships that foster unique creations.
Parks' commitment to originality extends to the store's hours of operation, emphasizing a personalized approach to customer service. His willingness to make sales at unconventional hours demonstrates a dedication to customer satisfaction and a passion for facilitating connections between consumers and truly homemade art.
Furthermore, the article provides a glimpse into the store's inventory, showcasing original designs, funny and thought-provoking shirts, clever undies, custom work, and handmade jewelry. My expertise allows me to appreciate the eclectic mix curated by Parks, highlighting the store's role as a platform for the best of the best in homemade art.
Beyond the business aspects, Parks's philanthropic endeavors are explored, with donations to Trees for the Future tied to every purchase. My knowledge allows me to recognize the societal and environmental impact of such initiatives, emphasizing the socially responsible dimension of the World's Smallest Store.
In conclusion, the World's Smallest Store is not merely a retail space; it's a manifestation of artistic expression, unconventional business practices, and a commitment to community and environmental well-being. As an expert in small business dynamics, artistic communities, and unconventional marketing, I find this unique establishment to be a captivating case study that reflects the vibrant spirit of entrepreneurship in New York City.
