Today we’d like to introduce you to Kalli Branson.
Hi Kalli, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
Atticus Modern Goods originally opened in 2020 and changed ownership in 2024. I worked for almost two years under our prior owner learning the ins and outs of operating a boutique and building on a wide variety of past work experiences from summer camps, Americorps, and SAAS product management to a smattering of retail jobs and running a coffee roasting company. My husband, Jake, is an Army Special Forces retiree and now works in cyber security. I joke that he’s our “silent investor”.
I’ve been drawn to the creativity required of entrepreneurship for as long as I can remember and feel strongly that small businesses are the heartbeat of a town’s culture. I love connecting with our community through the shop and being able to give back through quarterly donations and area fundraising events.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Atticus opened its doors in June of 2020. It was a risky time to open a new business, but the original owners knew the idea they had for the store was a good one, and that it would resonate with the community, masks or not!
Early in 2024 the store’s original owners were facing big decisions: layoffs due to slow sales and increasing cost of goods, or sell the business.
None of us (the original owners or my husband and I) wanted to see the store close down so we went through the process of acquiring the business. I am now doing the job of about 2.5 people, but have had the luxury of adjusting other obligations to make it work.
We still have routine challenges. Retail is not for the faint of heart and we are subject to the fluctuations of the wider economy (hello, tariffs!).
Hiring, training, and retaining employees is another struggle that comes with the territory. We always have a few part-time or seasonal employees. Most of whom are going to school and inevitably leave to continue pursuing their careers. That isn’t a process I’d change for the world, though, as I love mentoring the young people who have come through and have made life-long friends in the process.
We’ve been impressed with Atticus Modern Goods, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Atticus Modern Goods is a shop of curated goods in Athens, Texas. We offer clothing and accessories for men and women, clothing and gift items for kids, and accessories and decor for the home. We source our product and brands based on a unique list of criteria: Emphasis on Social Good, Sustainability, Quality Materials, and Craftsmanship. We also love product designed for, and supportive of, outdoor adventures.
Now a veteran and woman owned small business, Atticus embodies many things: creativity, connection, supporting small makers and American products, and giving back to our community. Since 2020 we’ve committed to donating a portion of quarterly sales to organizations and individuals who “Do Good”. These range from non-profits who serve disadvantaged populations to recreational, artistic, and educational opportunities.
When you shop at Atticus you are contributing to our mission to Be the Good!
Are there any important lessons you’ve learned that you can share with us?
It always comes back to community and relationships. I have had the opportunity to connect with so many fascinating people through the store! Whether it’s a person visiting from out of town that finds a spark of connection, a local I may not have had the chance to meet otherwise, or a maker at a trade show, each and every smile, laugh, or tear shared is deeply felt and cherished.
Humanity requires community and I love nurturing a little space to foster that here in Athens.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.atticusandco.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/atticusmoderngoods/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/atticusmoderngoods
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/atticus-and-company-athens-2
