Vintage Vibes with Mindy Cawley of Vintage MC

The Empty Nest Kitchen

This week, Christine sits down with Mindy Cawley, the owner of Vintage MC in Frederick, Maryland. They discuss Mindy's journey from farm life to running a successful vintage shop specializing in mid-century modern furniture and retro items. They explore the vibrant local support for small businesses in Frederick, thanks to initiatives like the Downtown Frederick Partnership and the Main Street Program. Mindy highlights the thrill of community events such as the 'Sailing Through the Winter Solstice' fundraiser, where decorated boats, including her own 'Dancing Queen 2.0,' bring light and joy during the winter. The conversation touches on balancing business and family life, the humor of family involvement, and the bittersweet aspects of dealing with empty nest syndrome. Mindy shares her gift for staying ahead of trends, the strong support in her community, and the joy of connecting with customers through her love for vintage and retro decor.
00:00 Introduction and Menopause Meal Plan Info
00:57 Meet Mindy Cawley from Vintage MC
01:21 The Story Behind Vintage MC
02:07 Expanding the Vintage Shop
03:19 Trends and Popular Items
13:03 The Charm of Downtown Frederick
14:24 Support for Local Businesses
16:35 Main Street Programs and Grants
21:34 Upcoming Trends and Holiday Plans
24:10 Winter Fundraising with Sailing Through the Winter Solstice
24:28 Decorating Boats for Charity
25:49 The Dancing Queen 2.0 Project
26:11 Holiday Preparations and Hustling for Donations
26:38 The Challenges and Joys of Small Business Ownership
27:38 Creative Fundraising Ideas
37:12 Reflections on Empty Nest Life
43:10 Favorite Local Eateries
44:35 Where to Find Mindy and Vintage MC

• Follow Christine Van Bloem on Instagram @theemptynestkitchen and on Facebook @emptynestkitchen
• Learn more about Menopause Meal Plans
• Sign up for my FREE 10 Essential Tools for the Empty Nest Kitchen
• Check out Vintage MC!