The Crossroads of the Aether
What would you want to see in a Steampunk Store?
I am entering into plans to create something of a Museum or Gallery, thoroughly immersed in the Steampunk genre, and I am just wondering what clever Steampunks such as yourselves would like to see in such a place.
Designs I have created include:
- a library of Steampunk Literature, where books are available to be borrowed,
- a fashion collection available for costuming in store, with the option to purchase a photograph of yourself dressed and posing in Steampunk fashion
- a simple cafe where specialty coffee, tea and sweets are available for purchase (and of course seating to enjoy said treats immersed in a steampunk environment
- a small 12 seat theatre, with regular showings of a variety of Steampunk films
- a 'gift shop' as it were, where many Steampunk items and accessories may be purchased (with a focus on small, unique handmade businesses)
- staff would always be dressed and acting in character.
The whole place would be filled with Victorian and sci-fi decor, and ideally I would like to a place with many rooms, where it could be set out like a museum or gallery, with rooms focusing on different aspects such as Communications, Military & Weaponry. It would feature individual's original characters or personas throughout, as if they were people from a time in an alternate history. I would love to feature Steampunk modifications in store on short term leases, where people can view the item and place orders with the artisan who created it. I want the decor and displays to focus on the Steampunk community of artists and artisans, creating a location for individuals to display their talents and passions, and for people to learn more and access such creativity.
I would like any input, criticisms or suggestions you may have for such an undertaking. Is there anything you would especially like to see that I have overlooked?
Thank you greatly.
Tags: advice, steampunk, store, suggestions
Replies to This Discussion
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Permalink Reply by Miss Minerva H. Woodrowe on -
Thank you, that is very encouraging!
As it happens, I intend on setting it up in Tasmania (moving there in 3 weeks!) so if that's more convenient for you, look me up ;)
Do people think it could be a successful endeavor? I am passionate about the idea (I've felt lost for years, not knowing what I was 'meant' to do, until I concocted this scheme!) and hope to see it become a place for fervent Steampunk enthusiasts, as well as the casual public to quench their thirst for a dose of beauty and science (and delicious coffee). If you lovely ladies and gents had a location like this in your area, would you frequent it?
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Permalink Reply by Prof. Sebastian Fate on -
My impression is that a Steampunk themed cafe with good coffee could succeed almost anywhere in tiny Tasmania . Simple demographics might suggest that outside the three main cities ( or , come to think of it , Hobart ) the full proposal might struggle .
Good luck though , and keep us informed .
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Permalink Reply by Miss Minerva H. Woodrowe on
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Thanks!
I'm moving to Launceston, and would happily set up there, but am prepared to live in Hobart for the good of the store, once I've done some further business training.
I am planning to start with the basics of the cafe/gift shop side, and build into the rest, as I'm doing it, essentially, on my own.
I will certainly keep you updated :)
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Permalink Reply by Prof. Sebastian Fate on
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A close reading of my original post would show that I used the expression ' good coffee ' . I understand that use of the qualification might not be to everyone's taste .
Tea drinker myself .
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Permalink Reply by Prof. Sebastian Fate on
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Always a good idea to check out the opposition . Due diligence .
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Permalink Reply by Eulalia Grace Hexham on -
You need some mummified fairies.
I think this is a brilliant idea. Yes, to a tea room, serving tea and scones and what-have-you. The cinema is a wonderful idea. Would you have space for an annual Steamcon of sorts? Live music? Occasional lectures from costumiers or historians? Workshops (make a hat, make a steampunk weapon) How about an old timey photographer, with steampunk props? Keep us posted with how this develops and I wish you all the luck!
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Permalink Reply by Miss Minerva H. Woodrowe on
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I had not thought of lectures and workshops!!! But those are definitely things that I would like to get running! OH it's opened up so much more ideas, thank you! I don't know how many appropriate lecturers could be found locally, but there is always skype for long distance lecturers!
Live music! I had definitely thought of playing a range of steampunk bands in-store, as well as playing steampunk-themed music videos occasionally (somehow), I had not thought of LIVE music! I think that's a really lovely idea to grow into :)
I definitely want to work up my 'grand opening' and encourage all the steampunks I know to dress up, and then turn it into an annual thing (celebrating the stores 'birthday' I guess?) that will grow into quite a big 'do'.
We would certainly be using a lot of steampunk props for photography, and plan to use a filter to make the photographs looks 'steampunk'.
It makes me so excited to see others getting excited about this! I haven't told many people I know yet, so it's very encouraging to get a positive response from fellow steampunks!
I'll definitely keep you updated. I'm currently snowed under, between packing to move in 3 weeks, and preparing for a complex cosplay for Brisbane Supanova in 2 weeks time, I'm really just taking notes - the real work will start after I move!
Keep offering your wise suggestions!
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Permalink Reply by Eulalia Grace Hexham on
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Happy to help! I just wish I lived closer
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Permalink Reply by Phill Holder aka Arial Bender on -
As a full time Steampunk artist I would love the idea of a store! My dream commission would be to completely furnish a home in Steampunk. Currently I have made clocks, lamps, mirrors, chairs, coffee and end tables, sofas, art, cabinets, guitars, amplifiers, blanket boxes...... so I would love a store that I could showcase, furnish all what Steampunk can be!
GREAT IDEA
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Permalink Reply by Phill Holder aka Arial Bender on
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As a Steampunk artist and designer of every type of Steampunk item to make a home a home...I Love your vision!
"if today you can see your dream, run for it because tomorrow comes too fast"
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Permalink Reply by Miss Minerva H. Woodrowe on
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Thanks so much Phil!
Last week at one of Australia's "Supanova" (popculture) conventions I spoke to a number of steampunk stallholders and started to make a potential suppliers list - and everyone sounded keen as a bean!
I'm just getting settled in Tasmania now, and once I have a place to live I'm going to be full steam ahead with plans for the store! We've already been scoping out shopfronts and starting to get bits and pieces organised, and tomorrow some friends and I are having a photoshoot in costume to use as promotional material, hopefully!
Thank you, and everyone, for your encouragement. It's getting very exciting now!
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Permalink Reply by Captain of The Lost World on -
So much to add. Old guns, pocket watches, gas leather mask, goggles, old leather clothes, toys of the era, candles, book ends. That's some of what I like. Dresses, suits...
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