Meet Alex Creswell | Owner of Neighbors

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

Hi Alex, how do you think about risk?
Risk-taking is complex subject for me, especially as a white woman who comes from a place of privilege. I recognize that the ability to take risks is often a privilege in itself—one that not everyone has access to. I’d like to think this awareness has shaped how I approach risk in my life and career.

Right now, very little about my life is consistent. I’m risking stability to pursue something I’m deeply passionate about: running Neighbors General Store. This venture has been the most fulfilling, life-giving, and rewarding experience I’ve ever had, but it’s also one filled with unknowns and variables that often keep me up at night.

Despite the uncertainties, I’m playing the long game. I believe that by taking this risk, I’m building something that not only helps me grow personally but also has the potential to impact the people around me in meaningful ways. My hope is that Neighbors will become a cornerstone of the community, providing jobs and opportunities, and fostering a sense of connection that brings people together.

Taking risks has allowed me to chase my dreams and contribute to something bigger than myself. It’s a journey filled with challenges, but the rewards—both seen and unseen—make it worth every uncertain step.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
Neighbors General Store is more than just a place to shop—it’s a community hub. What sets us apart is our commitment to fostering genuine connections with our customers and creating a welcoming space where everyone feels like they belong. We carefully curate our products to celebrate the idea of gatherings. Life happens over shared meals and good conversations. We sell more than just dishes and pantry items, the shop is about bringing people together.

I’m incredibly proud of the community we’ve built around Neighbors. Seeing people come together, form connections, and support one another through our store is truly inspiring. It’s a reflection of what I envisioned when I started this journey.

Getting to where we are today hasn’t been easy. The process has been full of challenges, from the uncertainty of starting a new venture to the daily demands of running a small business. One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is the importance of resilience and adaptability. When things don’t go as planned—and they often don’t—it’s crucial to stay flexible and find creative solutions.

But more than anything, I’ve learned the value of trust—trust in myself, in my vision, and in the people around me who have helped bring this dream to life.

I want the world to know that Neighbors General Store is about more than just selling goods; it’s about creating a space where people can connect, feel valued, and be part of something bigger. This store is a labor of love, rooted in community and built on the belief that together, we can create something truly special.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Eat:
Bell’s in Los Alamos
Ember in Arroyo Grande
Hidden Kitchen In Cayucos
BabyDudes in Morro Bay

Shop:
Len Collective in San Luis Obispo
Monarch Books in Arroyo Grande
Divers in Morro Bay

Drink;
Bodega in Los Alamos
Club Car Bar in Templeton
Field Day in San Luis Obispo (also great for shopping and coffee)

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
There are so many people who have helped me get to this place, but I want to take a moment to thank my husband, whose unwavering support and encouragement have been the backbone of Neighbors General Store. Every step of the way, he has believed in me, trusted in my vision, and stood by my side. Neighbors wouldn’t be here without him, and I’m endlessly grateful for his love and partnership on this journey.

Website: https://neighborsgeneralstore.com

Instagram: neighborsgeneralstore

Image Credits
All photos taken by me