We here at Metro Pulse are all pretty much fans of Julianne Applegate's charming and sustainable JulieApple bags. They're stylish yet practical, and, of course, they're local.
That is, they used to be local.
Today brings the sad news that Applegate is closing her Gay Street store on Friday. Her husband Toby has been offered a professorship at East Carolina University in Greenville, N.C., and the opportunity was too good for the family to pass up. "It's hard to go, it really is," Applegate said on the phone earlier today. "My husband and I have lived in Knoxville most of our adult lives."
Applegate opened JulieApple a couple of years ago after leaving New York City and her job with Le SportSac. The brand will continue on--as for now just via the online store--so you'll still be able to buy her fabulous bags in the future. But if you want to say goodbye to Applegate, you better do it fast. This week's First Friday event will be her grand finale.
Below, the shop's closing announcement as posted on Facebook.
It is hard to write these words, but it is true. I am very excited to be moving with my family for a new opportunity in my husband's career. In my heart, Knoxville will always be home. When I moved from New York City to Knoxville in 1998 I was amazed by the warmth and openness of the community in Knoxville. Since then, I have moved away and returned. No matter where I have lived, whenever I come to Knoxville, I am home. I want to thank everyone who has believed in JulieApple and opened his or her hearts to making Downtown Knoxville a vibrant creative community. I have traveled the world and lived in many places. Knoxville is a gem. It is like no other place. Magical things happen here, because this city is just the right size to nurture dreams. I will be visiting frequently. It is my hope that Knoxville will continue to see things a little differently and dream a little bigger than anyone expects.I hope you will join me this First Friday to celebrate the success of JulieApple and the vibrancies of Downtown Knoxville, our local businesses, our brilliant artists, and everyone who makes Knoxville so special that I leave with broken heart. I tell you, it is harder than you think to kiss this "scruffy little city" goodbye.XO,JulieP.S. Here's some good news! While our Design Studio is closing, our website is not! Shop JulieAppleStore.com for all your favorites. Enjoy $3 flat rate shipping and free gift wrapping everyday!
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