R+R Collective is a young thrift store run by a couple that only opened two years ago in the heart of San Antonio. This multifaceted store is for anyone looking to decompress from the fast-paced environment of corporate stores, offering a personal and toned-down shopping experience.
The 1,300-square-foot space not only provides an eclectic thrifting outlet of clothes ranging from the early 1900s to the present but also includes antique goods alongside a coffee and tea bar. When walking into the store on South Flores St., there is immediate relief from the hustle and bustle of San Antonio’s city life. A perfectly curated playlist of easy-listening music and herbal-scented candles encapsulate the customer — allowing for a comfortable and welcoming atmosphere.
The inspiration for this small but mighty shop came from traveling throughout Japan for owners Brian and Ashlea. They both are passionate about true vintage fashion, ethically sourced loose-leaf tea and the San Antonio small business community.
Eight small vendors are located inside the shop — providing unique trinkets to liven up the space in any home or special pieces of jewelry to display on a vanity stand. There are over 20 selections of various tea and coffee combinations people can try while shopping around the store. Brian emphasizes how the tea provided in the shop is ethically sourced from all over the country, helping rejuvenate abandoned tea farms. Some of their favorite drinks they provide are their royal milk tea, Vietnamese iced coffee and matcha — which are divinely paired with flavors matching each passing season.
Ashlea is originally from Orange County, California, but has come to love the city of San Antonio by being actively involved in the small business community. She hosts tea party gatherings amongst other store events where she continues to connect and bond with customers who have become friends.
Every first Friday of the month R+R Collective joins a late-night vintage pop-up market along with other local businesses — practicing their core values as shop owners by providing an authentic customer experience and a community-focused establishment.
Brian and Ashlea are caring people hoping to spread the message that supporting small businesses is always the best alternative. They are willing to help young entrepreneurs with their questions and concerns about opening up their own shops. To all students, they provide a 10% in-store discount.
Each experience walking into the R+R Collective feels like a new one with a rotation of new clothes, trinkets and seasonal drink flavors. The shop is the perfect place to grab a refreshing drink, find the perfect birthday gift for a friend or finally purchase an authentic vintage pair of Levi’s.
Make sure to check out R+R Collective at 1010 S Flores St. Ste 123 and continue to support local businesses this holiday season.
