The Pursuit of Happiness: A Place to Perch
- Tammy
- Jun 8, 2018
- 3 min read
When Karl Maier met Jamie Estes in 1999, he never imagined a 20 year friendship/marriage lead them into opening the Owl and Ivy, an Exotic Gifts, Accessories & Home Decor shop. This destination for Hippies, Gypsies & Wanderers is located in historic Gastonia, NC at 170 S South Street, 103A. Despite their search for a business home along the coast and into Florida, something beckoned the Maiers to revisit Gastonia and explore beyond their initial impressions. This time they visited local business owners such as Hive Design and The Sleepy Poet Antique Mall of Gastonia, whose positive energy and genuine enthusiasm sealed their decision to join the downtown revitalization movement.
Karl has an extensive military background followed by a professional career with energy corporations. Jamie was a freelance writer and bookstore manager. Their pursuit of happiness led them from corporate careers to retail. But not just any retail - a metaphysical one inclusive of various supplies for wide range of cultural practices. Are you seeking a ceremonial crystal? A salt lamp? Saging feather? Sacred incense? Eastern accessories? Eclectic decor? Indie clothing? Custom jewelry to furniture? You'll find ALL THIS and A LOT MORE at the Owl and Ivy.
The latest addition? It will afford local business owners an opportunity to share a comfortable and casual office space with other business owners and entrepreneurs. The Perch CoWorking Community, is Gaston County's premier coworking community!
A perch is described as a branch or pole to alight upon, or a resting place. So whether you're a bird seeking reprieve from a long flight, a regular place to congregate with a like-minded flock, or simply your own pursuit of happiness, you'll find all opportunities at The Perch CoWorking Community.
What sets The Perch aside? Simply put, a sense of family. As a matter of fact, their motto is Don't just find a workspace, join a family. And right now, you can take advantage of their early sign up specials: receive 15% off your first month's membership when signing up throughout June. Or, wait, there's more! Sign on for three or more months and enjoy the rest of June for free! How's that for a family deal? The cost is only $100.00 per month for the following amenities:
Free WiFi & Printing, Kitchen & Break area, Pet Friendly, Community Events & Workshops, Resource Library, Ample Free Parking, and a private meeting room ( subject to availability ).
If you don't require a full month, you can opt for a day pass at $15.00 ( does not include special events ). An 8-pack will cost $50.00 per month, and includes 8 days of flexible community use. Not enough? Then shoot for the 12 pack for $75.00 a month. Need more than 8 days but less than 12? No problem! Community members can expect to pay $10.00 per extra day.
What can you expect for events and workshops as a community member?
How about a free First Friday of each month networking mixer? "A casual event open to all entrepreneurs and business owners. Meet new friends and make professional connections while enjoying small bites and refreshments."
Or, Coffee & Chats every 3rd Wednesday of the month? "The goal is to encourage business development, advance personal and professional growth, and increase community knowledge. Each session revolves around a specific topic related to small business/entrepreneurship during the first hour, with an extra 30 minutes open to current events and local business news."
Events such as the upcoming Summer Solstice Wishes Celebration, June 21, 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM, will provide a Wish Jar to decorate before filling it with "your intentions for the future and lend power to your dreams by cementing them in the physical world." And, of course, don't forget the shopping opportunities from local vendors, including tarot readings, energy healing, handmade items, custom jewelry, and so much more.
So why go it alone when starting out, or isolate yourself at home, especially if you don't have everything needed to get the job done and the networking necessary to get ideas out into the community? I'm in the air a lot throughout Gaston County; however, landing at The Perch a few days out of the month is something I'm definitely considering. I personally picked up two jobs yesterday while working there to gather information for this post!
The Perch is a respite from a journey made easier by a flock going in the same direction. After all, a family of like-minded individuals will not only conserve your energy by partially shielding you from harsh elements of isolation and despair, it will refuel your hope and encourage you to continue pursuing your own happiness.
The Maiers ask it perfectly, and you should too: Why work alone when we can work together?
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