But it is. What's going on? Lake Street is clearing out- farewell to TJ's, Hobie Cat, Ventana, and Private Collection.
Steve and I had dinner at Cactus the other night (which is always fun AND good food). After dinner we weren't in the mood for coffee or more drinks, so we went to the only other place open at 9pm in downtown Kirkland- Bikini Beach! And after chatting with owner, Jon Hesse (pictured left), he shared the secret to staying in business in downtown Kirkland- sounds basic, but here goes.........STAY OPEN LATER.
But I think he's on to something. TJ's always seemed packed, but apparently it wasn't open very often. Actually, a lot of the businesses down there close up at 5 or 6 which gets the owners/employees home for dinner, but misses the after work and dinner crowd that wants to shop. After just happening upon Bikini Beach being open, we ended up buying 2 shirts and a sweatshirt. And almost a bathing suit if I hadn't just eaten a giant butternut squash quesadilla for dinner ;-). There were a few racks of Roxy clothes for 40% off and tons of great flip flops and summerware. As we were leaving at around 9:30pm, a young girl wandered in and said, "wow, you're still open?" Jon (who's typically open til 9) responded "Sure, take your time and let me know if I can help you find something."
Do any of you find that the shops are closed during hours that you want to do your shopping? WHAT IF- all the shops got together and picked a night to stay open late? Just one night a week to start- maybe Thursdays so it could coordinate with the second Thursdays art walk and everyone stayed open til 10. I know the Kirkland Downtown Association encourages staying open and there's always talk of experimenting- has it already happened? Did I miss it? Especially with summer around the corner. Put up some balloons and signs and an ad in the Courier so people would know. You can't increase sales when your doors are shut and it's dark inside. We're trying to avoid rampant Kirkland business obituaries- let us know you ideas! ~Janis