We had the good fortune of connecting with Violet Hopkins and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Violet, where are your from? We’d love to hear about how your background has played a role in who you are today?
I have a quirky background and I’m not really from one particular place. My mom is Argentinian and my dad is Texan but I didn’t live in the States until high school. I grew up mostly England near London, but lived in Libya and Spain, with stretches in Nigeria and Saudi Arabia. I didn’t have a choice- I was always a weirdo. Although it wasn’t always easy, I deeply appreciate my experiences and exposures to different cultures. I know it all shaped my aesthetics, politics and made me a more open & resilient person.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
I have a vintage store in Highland Park called Operator that has clothing, jewelry, books, furniture, textiles, decor and household goods, like lamps and dishware. I’m primarily an artist but I’ve always loved objects- maybe too much! I’ve been thrifting and collecting since I was a teen- I’m always hunting for treasures! Part of my motivation to start Operator was an excuse to be able to collect all the amazing things I encounter. I used to come across a remarkable item and think- “I don’t need this,” but now I think ‘some one will love this!” One of the best feeling in the world is when someone comes to Operator and finds the perfect thing for them. That stunning dress or a unique present or that thing you didn’t know you needed until you saw it. I think of myself as a kind of object matchmaker. In fact, I tell my customers to let me know what they are looking for. Even if I don’t have it in the store, if I know what you need, I will be on the hunt for you!

Another motivation is the ecological aspect of this business. Instead of inferior fast fashion, flimsy furniture or what have you- it makes me super happy to offer well designed, high quality goods that were made to last. The materials and craftsmanship of vintage wares are vastly superior to most new goods today. So buying vintage is a win/win for us and the planet.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Oh, man! I love LA! Where to start?!? There is soooo much amazing food in this city, so perhaps some tacos from Guisado’s or Villa’s Tacos are first. I still think of Jonathan Gold (R.I.P) as my culinary guide- Meals By Genet (for some Ethiopian) would have to be in the mix and a visit to San Gabriel Valley for some Chinese- Chengdu Taste or Hot Pot, Hot Pot, anyone? After nosh, some nature. I take out of towners on hikes in the Angeles National Forest or for a dip at Matador Beach. And some art viewing would definitely be on the itinerary. The Getty, an architectural stunner, has a great collection and amazing views of the city, so a perfect spot for visitors. The Hammer & LACMA are also gems, not to mention a ton of galleries to see contemporary art. Even though I have a vintage store, I love to shop around- Personal Choice Vintage in Eagle Rock is a favorite spot that always has the most chic clothing. And the owner, Jim is the sweetest! For night time, LA has many charming little bars, like the Prince or the HMS Bounty and there is always stellar music at Zebulon. I would definitely want to show off LA’s distinct neighborhoods, like Koreatown – such great food and perhaps a visit to WiSpa for a steam & a scrub or DTLA- lets go to Santee Alley for bootleg t-shirts & drag queen jewelry after checking out the stunning old movie palaces of yore along Broadway. An overnight trip to Joshua Tree might be on the agenda. The park is stunning no matter what time of year it is and there’s the transcendent sound bath at the Integretron. That’s the thing I love about this city, so many options!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I have so many amazing people in my life that have helped me in many ways. Specifically in the realm of my vintage endeavor, I am greatly inspired by Bianca Sitwell and her truly visionary business-Monte Vision. She has such an amazing eye and immaculate integrity. I frequently ask myself- what would Bianca do.

Instagram: operator.la

Facebook: Operator L.A.

Image Credits
Violet Hopkins

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