How did Hey Jude Love Pete start?
Hey Jude Love Pete came about very quickly, and very much in line with the saying – “do, then think afterwards”. I had been managing a nearby boutique for 7.5 years and people would often say that I should open my own.
From the time I found the space (which was the only space I looked at – I just really wanted it), to getting an ABN, registering the name and opening our doors – it was only about 8 weeks. We only had a few labels and pieces to start, because let’s face it, you need to make money before you can buy more stock! Retail is ME. I’ve been involved in it in one way or another since I was 11 years old. Even when I was at Uni or living overseas – it’s what I did.
While setting up the shop, I started to get a bit of foot traffic – the community were intrigued. One of my mates was visiting one particular set up day when someone actually entered. A CUSTOMER! Yikes, I hadn’t planned on opening that day. My mate said “Go, here is your first customer. I will open the doors wide up for you!” AND BOOM – I had my first sale. It still astounds me that people come from far and wide to visit my little shop!
What is the story behind the name of the shop?
Jude and Pete are my parents’ names, so it’s a little nod to them. My daughter also chose the shop colours.
What makes the store unique?
My props are very much a talking point. I’ve been collecting mid-century/retro pieces for about three decades, so a lot of it came from my very cluttered home. I display shoes on top of retro scales or can openers, as well as necklaces draped over old hairdryers or Murano glass.
One of the other differences is that I open 7 days a week. I’ve always been someone who goes against trends. When I buy stock, agents often say – “This is a Best Seller. Everyone in the state is buying this!” and I reply – “Well, I am not everyone.” I don’t buy ‘what’s in’ – I just try looking for variety, with a focus on colour, colour and more colour.
Why have you decided not to sell online?
I am very much a believer in bricks and mortar retail. ALL THE WAY! I do get asked to go online but I practice what I preach. My stock turnover is fast and I also have the attention span of a mollusc with limited IT skills – it’s just not for me.
Starting in the Covid era must have been challenging – can you tell us more about that and how you managed?
When I tell people that I opened in between the two lockdowns, they literally pick up their jaws. Then I throw in a little side comment – “Oh, and I don’t have a website”…
When the second lockdown occurred, the fashion season was in full on delivery swing. All of my stock was redirected to my home so my living room resembled a giant game of Jenga. I would photograph pieces and put them on socials and I also merchandised the shop windows regularly, so walkers/drive bys could have a squizz. I offered to deliver to people’s doors and I was part of Newcastle Window Wander that Libby from Pappa Sven got up and running. There was even a mention in Parliament about it! We somehow made it all work.
You regularly make donations to charity – why is this important to you and can you tell us a little about the charities you’ve chosen to support and why?
I believe everyone needs support from time to time. When the Lismore floods occurred, I boxed up $5k of stock. At the time, my Aunt and Uncle were living there, so they dispersed it to those that needed it.
I have also donated to Got Your Back Sista. Again, supporting real people in our real community is important to me. I have donated socks to an entire classroom, when one of their classmates (and tragically a relative of mine), passed. Now, the school makes it a yearly fundraiser.
An old school mate walked through my door last month. I asked what she was up to and she left with a car full of stock for her not-for-profit shop that employs adults with disabilities.
I don’t do these things to get a pat on the back. I just treat people how I want to be treated. I have attended a customer’s wedding and even funerals. One customer, residing nearby, came to my window whilst in labour so I could talk to her, and she could focus on the shop display for distraction. I love our community.
What are the brands that you’re most known for?
HJLP is known as one of the largest stockists in Australia for one label, and one of the largest stockists in NSW for several others. They include:
Elk
Boom Shankar
Tightology
Fly London
Merry People
Blunt Umbrellas
Bridge & Lord
Mansted
Polka Luka
Lou Lou
Red Fox Sox
Rilasarre
Vassalli
How can Newcastle help you celebrate four years in business?
Visit the store and mention Swell mag to go in the draw for a HJLP gift voucher and a copy of Swell issue 22!
Or, visit the store between Thursday 20 Feb and Sunday 23 Feb wearing four pieces of HJLP for your chance to win a voucher! If you can’t visit the store – send a pic on Instagram. Vouchers will be drawn COB Sunday 23 February.
Hey Jude Love Pete
63 Hunter Street, Newcastle
@heyjudelovepete
