ARLINGTON, Texas–Tucked in the city center of Arlington is a small, house-like structure adorned with a large sign reading, “The Mosaic Market.”
The gift shop, located at 204 N. West St., is stocked wall-to-wall with products from local Arlington businesses. Melina Wikoff, the co-owner, said she wants everyone to know the shop is open.
The business, which opened on July 4, 2024, is owned by two life-long best friends, Wikoff and Derith Armbruster. Their friendship started in Arlington 45 years ago. Both co-owners are Arlington locals. Wikoff, “Hawaiian-born and Texas-bred,” graduated from Lamar High School, and Armbruster is a University of Texas at Arlington alum. Wikoff said she loves the dynamic of “locals serving locals.”
“We learned after we opened, and the artists started coming, how much it was needed here,” Wikoff said. “We’re answering the dreams of people we didn’t even know.”
Within the walls of the market, there are products from 80 different local artists and businesses, with items like sculptures, art, books, kitchenware, decor and even snacks. The women used to run a more “traditional-style” of market, with rented booth spaces. But Wikoff said the pair wanted to create a space that was different.
“What we’ve created here is what we wish existed when we entered this realm of arts and crafts and vintage,” Wikoff said.
The women collect a commission at sales and merchandise everything themselves.
“It’s a better experience not just for our small businesses, but for, also, the shoppers,” Wikoff said.
Wikoff said she and Armbruster have one message for the public.
“We’re here!” Wikoff said. “The best advertisement for us is word of mouth.”
Wikoff said they are hoping that satisfied customers provide Google reviews and help get the word out.
The store has only been open for seven months, which is still considered quite new for a small business. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 48% of small business fail within their first five years. It is hard not to have an element of fear going into such a venture. This business is unique because it aims to benefit other local small business while being one itself.
Wikoff said she is “so proud” of Arlington and that it is “intentional in their inclusivity.” That’s an ethos that fuels the Mosaic Market.
The store includes items and art directly from Black-owned and LGBTQ-friendly businesses, so there is something for everyone. The shop even has gift wrapping on hand for those wanting to stop in on the way to a party.
To listen to an audio clip of a portion of the interview with Melina Wikoff, please click here.
