Q&A With Unique by Unique
Many years ago in elementary school, I had a friend named Unique (yes, really!). She moved away but we eventually, as many other people do, found each other on social media.
Unique, who is now based in Portland, opened up her own tiny shop on Instagram so I of course had to ask her all about it! To learn more about Unique, her shop, and what she sells ( and how you can purchase something), read on below!
Without further ado, here is my Q&A with Unique Torres:
Tell me about yourself. Who are you and what do you do?
My name is Unique Torres, and I am a "solopreneur", lover of all things digital, vintage, home styling, and decor!
I am a California gal, living in the Pacific Northwest in Portland, Oregon. I run my little online shop, “Unique by Unique”, where I curate vintage and unique secondhand items and drop small collections of them every Saturday to folks who will give them a second, third, (or beyond) a chance to be admired and loved!
Aside from running my shop, I am a digital media manager offering social media management, web services, email marketing, and more to LGBTQ+ and BIPOC owned small businesses. I offer these services via my own business, Unique L.T. Social Media Management.
Unique Torres
How did you come up with "Unique by Unique"?
“Unique by Unique” was named to pay tribute to the items I was finding and collecting from my local shops, estate sales, and thrift stores.
I think the best way to describe the shop would actually be Unique (items curated) by Unique (Torres). It's a nice little play on my name also being a fun adjective!
From what I can see on your page and the items you sell, you have a specific style. Can you tell me more about that?
If I were to describe the decor style found throughout my shop page in three words, I would describe it as warm, neutral, and earthy.
I really enjoy curating items made of natural materials such as wicker, rattan, and wood. The shop also aligns closely with (the) bohemian-style.
What type of items do you sell?
I started off collecting and selling smaller items like; mugs, wicker baskets, planters, unique cocktail glasses, brass items, vases, and more!
More recently I have started to incorporate some neutral and unique furniture pieces available for local area delivery.
How do you pick the items you sell on your page and where do you find them?
I love all things brass, wicker, and Mid-Century. I especially keep my eye out for warm tone, earth tone, and neutral color palettes.
I tend to lean toward this style and I often find these items in local thrift shops community groups and estate sales.
I know you only exclusively sell on your Instagram page, do you have plans to create a website or an actual store someday?
For the time being, I am sticking with good old IG for my shop. Although, who knows what will happen down the line. I am nothing if not constantly enthusiastic about new and exciting projects!
When do you list new items and how can somebody purchase them? I also know that you are based in Portland-do you ship all over the US?
Items are claimed via the comments! Customers typically comment "SOLD" on an item and I honor purchases on a first-come-first-serve basis!
I am based in Portland, Oregon and I do ship all over the states! I also offer a porch drop-off service for my local pals!
NOTE: Unique Primarily takes Paypal for Payment. If you are the first person to claim the item, she will DM you to get your address and payment details. She will also DM you your USPS tracking number.
Lastly, tell me a fun fact about yourself!
I am an only child! My amazing mother actually named me “Unique” because in Spanish (my first language) it directly translates to "the only one"!
