Meet Joey Walsch | Master Thrifter

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

Hi Joey, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
My husband and I started our own reselling business in the Fall of 2021, right before we got married, with the intention of recouping some wedding costs. We are avid thrifters and also love the niche style of funky thrifted vintage sweaters whether they be neon 90s or vintage holiday, we love it ALL! We found there is definitely a market out there for those who love them too! I have a knack, or my friends would call it a superpower, at thrifting. I can find ANYTHING at a thrift store, and this included incredible sweaters. Now almost 2 years later we are still going strong

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
It has definitely not been easy, especially when the algorithm on social media platforms is so wishy washy, but is so necessary in the climate of business today. All you can do is keep swimming and try to just do your best. I am pretty proud of our success so far and we are even known around town as “The sweater people”! I am also just so proud to work with my husband and best friend. We always are looking for ways to work together as we are better together. We worked in the live events industry in LA prior to moving to Oregon and we found that we really are a power couple. He’s great at the building, artistic and creative aspects while I thrive in the admin, organization and community building aspects. What I want the world to know about our brand and story is we really love to do what we do. Sourcing second hand pieces is not only great for the environment but great on your wallet. And it truly is a magical feeling when the right piece finds the right person.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I live in a quaint hallmark town of Ashland OR. I would definitely take them to our favorite breakfast spot in town, Breadboard. Followed by a rousing game of Pickleball at Lithia Park. The town is so walkable with shops and eateries but my standouts are Funagain Games in downtown Ashland which is filled to brim with board games and puzzles as well as Mix for a sweet treat or coffee. Some afternoon shopping at Golden Grove Collective, and obviously some thrifting at HUB and Ashland Artisans Emporium. IF we had time I would take a 2 hour drive up to the Redwoods and coast!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Definitely want to shoutout my mom, Vicki Thomas. She raised me going to thrift stores, garage sales, estate sales etc. I loved getting to “treasure hunt” and she made it so fun and accessible. I am the person I am today because she encouraged that side of me. She never made it feel like it was less than us, or that it was something to be ashamed of, so I never did feel that way about second hand goods. Also shout out to my bestie, Stacia McClain, who nominated me for this!

Instagram: lovesweatervintage

Facebook: Love Sweater Thrift & Vintage

Image Credits
Joey and Karus Walsch