I usually use “we” when I talk about Hei-Hey. And while there is a fantastic (very part-time) employee involved, truthfully, Hei-Hey is mostly just me.

I grew up in Wisconsin, where many of my friends were the children of immigrants. When I moved to Boston, my colleagues, many of whom became lifelong friends, were immigrants too, including the Finnish woman who sparked my love of Nordic design and, eventually, this shop.

Now, in Portland, I ride the bus with immigrants. They run and work in the businesses that keep my days moving. Their children are in the Before the Bell program where I spend my early mornings. They are friends who make my days better. And they are part of what makes this city feel alive and special.

I wrestled with the decision to close on Friday for the National Shutdown. I’m a very small, very new business, and it’s fair to wonder what difference that could make. But if it helps even one person feel seen, supported, or less alone, that feels worth it.

So Hei-Hey will be closed in solidarity with the people who make Portland, and this country, truly great. And this weekend, if you’re able, please get out and support local businesses in whatever ways you can, whether they chose to close or needed to stay open. A visit, a purchase, a kind word. It all counts. 🖤