Store Spotlight: Arcade
Music City native Genie Lockwood opened Arcade in Nashville’s bustling Hillsboro Village neighborhood in the fall of 2015. By thoughtfully channeling the vintage vibes and creative energy so inherent to Nashville, Arcade has become a destination for locals and visitors alike. Below, Genie tells us why the store is her happy place - and shares some kid-friendly Nashville recommendations along the way.
- Photography
- Emily Dorio
- Written By
- Alexandra Willkie Pasanen
What led you to open Arcade?
Owning and running a store was a longtime dream of mine. I’ve always loved the thrill of seeking out interesting objects. I originally envisioned having an antique gift and furniture store, but after I had my first son, Roman, I was majorly inspired by all of the small toy and clothing companies out there.
In the ‘90s there was a great kids store in Nashville called Shooting Stars. I have the happiest memories of shopping there with my mom and buying the most outrageous outfits. I wanted to create a memorable experience like that for my own children.
How did you settle on Nashville’s charming Hillsboro Village?
Hillsboro Village has always been one of my favorite Nashville neighborhoods, mainly because of its proximity to the Belcourt Theatre {a nonprofit film center}. Many of our customers live in the neighborhood and stop in after an afternoon in Centennial Park, a visit to Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams, or a class at Little Art House. Hillsboro Village has become a great area for young children.
Owning and running a store was a longtime dream of mine. I’ve always loved the thrill of seeking out interesting objects. I originally envisioned having an antique gift and furniture store, but after I had my first son, Roman, I was majorly inspired by all of the small toy and clothing companies out there.
In the ‘90s there was a great kids store in Nashville called Shooting Stars. I have the happiest memories of shopping there with my mom and buying the most outrageous outfits. I wanted to create a memorable experience like that for my own children.
How did you settle on Nashville’s charming Hillsboro Village?
Hillsboro Village has always been one of my favorite Nashville neighborhoods, mainly because of its proximity to the Belcourt Theatre {a nonprofit film center}. Many of our customers live in the neighborhood and stop in after an afternoon in Centennial Park, a visit to Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams, or a class at Little Art House. Hillsboro Village has become a great area for young children.
Tell us a little about your opening.
Opening the shop was really exciting! We launched online several months before opening the doors to our brick and mortar. During that time, we spent everyday in the store - with craft paper covering the windows - setting up for business, merchandising, and just hustling to get things ready! I remember feeling so happy on opening day, watching friends and neighbors shopping and hanging out in our space.
What are some particularly special items customers can find in the store?
We have some amazing one-of-a-kind vintage pieces, like these original Disney prints from the '60s that I found and had framed. It's a thrill for me when a customer gets excited about one of our unique finds. I know how much joy these items can bring.
You have an amazing eye. Is sourcing product the best part of the job?
There are so many things I love about my job! I don't think I have ever said that about any of my jobs before. I particularly love searching the globe for unique brands, working with small brands and introducing their products to Nashville, and chatting with my customers.
Aside from your amazing product assortment, what sets Arcade apart?
I have always been attracted to things that provide a feeling of nostalgia for another time and I think my shop reflects that. We have an old-school photo booth that kids and parents both love. I feel like I’ve created my own happy place.
Opening the shop was really exciting! We launched online several months before opening the doors to our brick and mortar. During that time, we spent everyday in the store - with craft paper covering the windows - setting up for business, merchandising, and just hustling to get things ready! I remember feeling so happy on opening day, watching friends and neighbors shopping and hanging out in our space.
What are some particularly special items customers can find in the store?
We have some amazing one-of-a-kind vintage pieces, like these original Disney prints from the '60s that I found and had framed. It's a thrill for me when a customer gets excited about one of our unique finds. I know how much joy these items can bring.
You have an amazing eye. Is sourcing product the best part of the job?
There are so many things I love about my job! I don't think I have ever said that about any of my jobs before. I particularly love searching the globe for unique brands, working with small brands and introducing their products to Nashville, and chatting with my customers.
Aside from your amazing product assortment, what sets Arcade apart?
I have always been attracted to things that provide a feeling of nostalgia for another time and I think my shop reflects that. We have an old-school photo booth that kids and parents both love. I feel like I’ve created my own happy place.
How has being a small business owner changed you?
It has definitely made me more responsible! We’re open for business every day of the week, so I have to really be on top of things. The challenge is that there’s no stopping, never a day off. Owning Arcade has also made me view other businesses differently. I shop more thoughtfully, and I think more about the people behind a business, their creativity, and their work.
What’s the best business decision you’ve ever made?
Hiring the right people! You have to understand your own limitations and surround yourself with people you trust, and who also take pride and ownership in your business.
Any tips for maintaining a healthy work-life balance?
That’s the million dollar question! If I had it all figured out, I’d give you the answer. It’s hard, especially when you’re a mom and you’re responsible for so much more than just yourself. I do think self-care is important. I do the same things that brought me joy before I was juggling so much responsibility. I go to my favorite workout class, I spend time with girlfriends, and I try to get a good night’s sleep.
You have two boys, Roman (age 5) and Oscar (age 4). What’s the best part of raising them in Nashville?
The boys love so much about their city. They love walking down the hill from our house to Sevier Park and getting popsicles at Las Paletas .The people in Nashville are known for being friendly. I’ve lived in other cities and always loved the feeling of arriving back at the Nashville airport, hearing those warm, southern accents, and feeling so relieved to be home.
It has definitely made me more responsible! We’re open for business every day of the week, so I have to really be on top of things. The challenge is that there’s no stopping, never a day off. Owning Arcade has also made me view other businesses differently. I shop more thoughtfully, and I think more about the people behind a business, their creativity, and their work.
What’s the best business decision you’ve ever made?
Hiring the right people! You have to understand your own limitations and surround yourself with people you trust, and who also take pride and ownership in your business.
Any tips for maintaining a healthy work-life balance?
That’s the million dollar question! If I had it all figured out, I’d give you the answer. It’s hard, especially when you’re a mom and you’re responsible for so much more than just yourself. I do think self-care is important. I do the same things that brought me joy before I was juggling so much responsibility. I go to my favorite workout class, I spend time with girlfriends, and I try to get a good night’s sleep.
You have two boys, Roman (age 5) and Oscar (age 4). What’s the best part of raising them in Nashville?
The boys love so much about their city. They love walking down the hill from our house to Sevier Park and getting popsicles at Las Paletas .The people in Nashville are known for being friendly. I’ve lived in other cities and always loved the feeling of arriving back at the Nashville airport, hearing those warm, southern accents, and feeling so relieved to be home.
