our Story

The Collective has been a labor of love for Tommi Long and Lindsay Bangel. The two merged their businesses, Contravan and LABL VB, along with Wanderful Boxes in November. Tommi and Lindsay met after Lindsay moved back home from NYC. They were both operating their businesses under the pop up model creating unique experiences for their customers. Tommi and Lindsay connected personally and professionally and their businesses were ready for the next step.

After a year of due diligence, actively looking for a space, Tommi connected with Jon Sedel, the owner of La Promenade Distinctive Shoppes.  Jon liked their story and he was open minded to the collaborative experience.

Sara was just starting a new business, joined the business venture and the store was named The Collective because all the businesses operated cooperatively to make a cohesive space.

The Collective opened as a holiday pop up and has turned into a permanent location. The store offers something for everyone - women’s contemporary clothing, activewear, natural beauty and gifts as well as kids clothing.

The Collective has created a low risk environment for emerging businesses by bringing in other brands to experience a retail storefront. Tommi, Lindsay and Sara have created a retail launch pad showing others they are not alone.