Small Biz Focus: The Alcove Comes Alive

This column is sponsored by BizLaunch, a division of Arlington Economic Development.

On a recent Thursday evening, The Alcove pop-up space in Rosslyn became an extra dimension for another seminar in the series ROC: Return on Creativity, an Arlington Asset.

The panel of creatives delivered on navigating the changing landscape of publishing, branding, libraries and learning; the Rosslyn BID, Arlington Public Library, Arlington Economic Development and the American Advertising Federation D.C. Chapter brought everything else.

Starting with Greg Kihlstrom’s launch of his newest book, The Agile Brand, library moderator Genelle Schuler led panelists Scott Williams (Newseum), Lisa Nirell (Energize Growth). Geoff Livingston (Livingston Campaigns) and Cynthia Connolly (who doesn’t love Banned in DC?) in a forum that was as lively as the space.

“I really enjoyed the panel discussion… It was great to hear from the panel that self-publishing is a more than viable option its often the better route to go down. I have often had the desire to dig deep on a subject matter and write a book. I think as I go through this period of self-discovery about my brand and purpose I will identify what that will be soon!” – Kat Azima, Denteo Marketing Group

Temporary pop-up spaces are taking on a sophistication — and a new role — that is shifting place-making and retail. If it weren’t for the occasional plywood flooring and the whirring vent fans, visitors to the Alcove would think they’d found a surprising new boutique. A full wall mural greets visitors, a rainbow of fibers floats along the windows and shoppers lounge in a mini living room.

This is way more than decoration.

The Alcove pop-up space is a two month experiential endeavor soon to be occupied by a long term tenant. But from the size of the audience at Return on Creativity, the constant flow of visitors to the book shop and the Etsy pop-up, these prototype spaces are combining consumers’ curiosity with a desire for an Instagram moment.

Supporting entrepreneurs, small businesses and creatives is all part of Arlington’s Creative Economy initiative. With public/private partnerships, growth of these endeavors is an important part of business sector diversity and economic sustainability.

Check here for ongoing Creative Economy listings and opportunities. More Creative economy stories on the blog.