From Department Store Floors to Vintage Treasures
Long before I opened Atomic Road Hohm, I was walking the sales floors of department stores. My retail career began at Davison’s, which later became Macy’s, and by the early 1990s, I had joined Rich’s Department Stores, which also became Macy’s. It was there—among mannequins, markdowns, and merchandise—that I learned invaluable lessons about presentation, service, and customer connection.
The Mentors Who Made a Mark
Two people during that time had a lasting influence on me:
Jerry, my store manager, and Karl, my district visual manager.
Jerry taught me the core principles of customer engagement. During our regular floor walks, he shared a piece of wisdom I’ve never forgotten:
“Kevin, there’s nothing in this building our customers can’t get somewhere else. The difference is our presentation, our offer, our availability—and most importantly, the service we provide.” — Jerry, Store Manager
That single statement continues to guide my work today. I’ve carried it with me from big-box retail to small business ownership.
The Eye for Detail—Thanks to Karl
Karl, on the other hand, inspired my creative vision. He had a gift—he could step into any space and immediately see potential. He shared his expertise with intention, always encouraging others to see beyond the obvious. He didn’t just teach visual merchandising—he taught storytelling through design.
To this day, I credit Karl for shaping the way I create vignettes, style booths, and elevate even the simplest item through thoughtful presentation. His lessons live in every curated setup you’ll see at Atomic Road Hohm.
Bringing It All Together at Atomic Road Hohm
Now, as I buy and sell vintage and Mid-Century Modern furniture, I remind myself that while every item is unique, I’m not the only one selling beautiful things. The difference comes down to four key things:
- Presentation
- Pricing & Value
- Quality & Condition
- Customer Service
That’s what sets Atomic Road Hohm apart—and it’s a direct reflection of what Jerry and Karl instilled in me decades ago.
Retail Wisdom, Timelessly Applied
Some advice never goes out of style. I may no longer be working the floor of a department store, but every time I stage a new piece, greet a customer, or post an item online, I’m guided by the same principles: make it look good, make it matter, and make the experience unforgettable.
Remember to,
Shop the story, Live the Style
Kevin