We had the good fortune of connecting with Austin Brunner and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Austin, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
I really loved the idea of being my own boss. Having the [creative] freedom to be able to work when I wanedt & how I wanted really resonated with me. That being said, working whenever you want really means working 24/7 when starting & running a business!

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I am a hairstylist by trade & an artist! My mom was also a hairstylist & an artist so I started following in her footsteps a bit. Doing hair wasn’t something I always wanted to do, but kind of fell into. I ended up really enjoying it & stuck with it up until 2 years ago when I decided to take the jump into starting my clothing business full time! It has not been an easy journey, but has definitely taught me a ton! Not only about myself, but how hard it is starting & sticking with starting a business. It is basically a “learn as you go” & tweak the way you do things as you learn what works, what doesn’t work, etc! It is challenging, but can be quite rewarding in the end!

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
My favorite spots in Chicago have to be the divey-er spots in the local neighborhoods! I am not much of a main stream, clubby type gal so a nice dive bar with good bar food where we can sit & actually have a conversation is definitely my vibe! I also love walking through Gold Coast neighborhood (especially in the summer & during the holidays when all of the house get decked out in decor), it is a very peaceful neighborhood with gorgeous houses!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My mom has been a huge part in inspiring me to take the leap into starting up my own business. She is also an artist herself, so she knows how hard it can be, but she has done nothing, but support me & push me to keep going. Another big part in continuing this journey has been my boyfriend. Many times I have wanted to throw in the towel, but he has lifted me up, dusted me off, & never lets me give up. He comes to all of my events, helps with all of my online stuff, etc. Both my mom & my boyfriend have given me so much strength to continue growing; not only as a business owner, but as a human as well!

Website: Thriftdrevival.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thriftdrevival_?igsh=MWt2Z3ZyNnc5bm03OQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr

Other: Check out my TikTok as well! https://www.tiktok.com/@thriftdrevival?_t=8p0YYT8LbFm&_r=1 

Image Credits
All images were taken by me 🙂 @thriftdrevival_ & @aussybear on socials!

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutSouthCarolina is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.