Today we’d like to introduce you to Mitchell Sotka
Hi Mitchell, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
After leaving the long term health care industry, I went back to what made me happier, antiques / design. This journey in the antique and design business started with a short stint with Rachel Davis, cataloging inventory. This gave me time to find full time employment. A five year engagement with June Greenwald Antiques provided some great basics from styles, periods, materials and how the business had shifted. Every business shifts and turns, learning this early on shaped what was to come. These foundation gave me the courage to spread my wings and see how the auction world plays into the this vast industry of history and beautiful things. Working for a regional auction house, Wolfs gave me further experience to handling more unusual items. With this under my belt I set out in 2003 to bring antiques and design to a traditional retail market. Mitchell Sotka opened two years later in its current location in Rocky River, within the Old River Shopping Area.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
One can n not grow with out challenges. Deciding to change locations and attempt to grow, adding design to the portfolio of work and weathering the financial crisis of 2008 and COVID all brought a sense of strength that includes staying calm and not having a knee jerk reaction. Cash flow, inventory interruption and sales were all impacted by these challenges. These challenges made me think outside of the box and plow forward.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
As an untraditional antique store, using antiques for decorating and to give as gifts has been my focus. I think the shop is known for being a creative space, offering interesting pieces, with friendly service at a good prices. The passion for antiques and a love adapting them to todays lifestyle has been my goal.
The diverse merchandise set up in an inviting way with a clear vision of creativity sets us apart from the traditional antique shop or antique mall. Welcoming all, who come in! Budget or need doesn’t matter, we are here!
You ask, what am I proud of. it is becoming part of North Eastern Ohio’s known retailors. This recognitions speaks to all the hard work that I have done and the people whom have worked with me.
Is there any advice you’d like to share with our readers who might just be starting out?
I am thrilled to see more younger people interested in vintage and antique pieces for design and creating business models behind this passion. This new generation of antique-ers have their own skill set. However, some of these folks lack knowledge identifying the antiques they are looking at. My advice is to reassure them their knowledge will grow through exposing oneself to as much as possible, through museums, antique shops, on line auctions, and research books. Stick to your vision / style, know as much as possible and stay friendly and sincere.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://mitchellsotka.com
- Instagram: mitchell_sotka
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mitchellsotkaltd/
