Discover: Dream Stream Shop
“
everyone deserves the chance to have and fulfill their dream, hopefully more than one!”
Tell us about yourself! What’s your background and what do you do?
Originally from VA, I moved to CO in 2015 to work for the fair trade organization, Ten Thousand Villages, which is where I'd been employed since 2011 after graduating college. The Denver location closed in 2017 and that's when I started work on the Dream Stream Shop! Now, I take the trailer to different pop ups (like TheBigWonderful and the RiNo and Sloan's Lake Bazaars!) It's half managing a store and half being a trucker/trailer boss ;)
How did you learn your craft? Tell us about your first finished product.
“As soon as I realized that the way we do business could be for good and that everyone involved is equally important in every step of the process, I knew that working in this industry was what I wanted to do.”
So, I learned a lot about Fair Trade and its effects in the global community from my studies in college and learned a great deal by working for Villages. As soon as I realized that the way we do business could be for good and that everyone involved is equally important in every step of the process, I knew that working in this industry was what I wanted to do. That's why when the Denver Villages location closed, I had to keep it going - however that looked.
Since I source all the products I carry from artisans around the world, I don't personally make anything I carry. However, I have been fortunate enough to meet several of the makers I work with and see how it's done. How did I learn to drive the trailer though? Careful and slow practice.
Where does the name of your business come from?
It's a play on of the Airstream... but also helping others achieve their dreams of a better, more fulfilling + sustainable life AND my dream to be more self-sufficient and see the world!
How long does it take to make your product and what’s involved in the process?
It all depends on where the artisans are and what they're making. Sometimes, a line of clothing can take months and I have to pre-order well in advance. Other products I carry can take just a week to get from the vendor.
Where does your inspiration come from?
My own interpretation of the American Dream - everyone deserves the chance to have and fulfill their dream, hopefully, more than one!
What’s your favorite product that you’ve created?
My favorite product that I have in right now is the Human Ringer Tee from Half United!
What question do you get asked the most at pop-up markets?
“How big is the trailer?”
What’s something unique about you that most people don’t know (or wouldn’t guess)?
I've been to 3 countries twice. (Germany, Sweden, Indonesia)
What’s your favorite beverage to sip on?
Freshly squeezed juice a la Amy Chadick.
What’s up next for Dream Stream Shop?
New brand/website just launched this week -check it out here: www.dreamstreamshop.com.
