When you walk into Arida you are met with a stunning eclectic mix of high-end European fashion and homewares, in particular the exquisite, hand-carved wooden sculptures from India. But that isn’t all, it’s clear that the customers are treated as friends, in fact I witness one lady being given a box of new arrivals to take to her husband to try on at home. Mike tells me this is a regular occurrence and that the lady will just bring back what he doesn’t want. Keith then says he is off to take the shop to another one of their customers and it transpires that this means popping the newest arrivals (most of which aren’t even on the shop floor yet) and taking them to their most valued customers when they feel like a wardrobe update. What a tremendous level of service and demonstration of trust.
Keith and Mike are business partners and Arida has been theirs for 5 years. It’s clear from their collection that they are a well-travelled and switched on. Watching the interaction between them and their customers is testament to the community of Potts Point. When you move to Potts Point you join a community and that sense of community shines out of businesses such as Arida. It’s exactly why we strive to always support local business as we understand it’s what makes the area thrive.
We asked Mike to answer a few questions about owning a business in Potts Point:
Why did you choose to open your business in Potts Point?
I was very aware of the demographic of the area and realised the opportunities that presented fitted well with the nature of the business.
What do you like about owning a business in Potts Point?
I love the people that come into my store, sometimes I feel like a counsellor as there is always a story to listen to and some gentle advice given!
What are your main inspirations?
The main inspirations for my business have been the extensive travel I have been lucky to undertake with my business partner, giving us a broader view of the world and the things in it. Having viewed the life in places like Milan and Paris my interest in fashion has been heightened and wandering through rice paddies in Thailand looking for treasures has made procuring homewares and beautiful pieces for the store very easy.
What are the most significant changes you have noticed in the area, since opening your business?
When we first opened the business the surrounding area was more bohemian, in latter years it has become more gentrified, older and more stable. Property prices have skyrocketed!
Give me 5 words you would use to describe Potts Point
What can I say! You were there today and saw how it all operates……
You missed the doggie visits and the treats we have out the back to “Share”.
Arida can be found at 61 Macleay Street, Potts Point, NSW 2011
Opening times:
Mon – Sat 10am – 6pm
Sun – 11am – 5pm