A closing pop-up sale for fat babes as yet another business closes
Remember how I promised to post more often and I haven’t really delivered on that? Well I’m trying to get less busy so I can. Truly I am. And one of the ways I’m doing that is by closing the House of Boom. Please tolerate me while I cut’n paste this in third person rather than re-writing it.
The House of Boom is closing – but it has nothing to do with cycleways.
After six years of producing ethical clothing for fat babes, made in Wellington by people on the living wage or more, the House of Boom is winding things up.
“I’m just really, really tired,” says owner Joanna McLeod. “So tired. And it feels really yuck trying to convince people to pay fair prices for clothing when I know they’re struggling to pay for groceries”.
“A good proportion of my customers were public servants, who have either lost their jobs or are living in really uncertain times, so it makes sense that they’re being cautious with their money. And since Boom has always been a side quest for me, and I actually have another full time job that pays the mortgage, it would be better that their spare dollars be spent on other small ethical businesses who are fighting for their livelihoods.
I had big big dreams of running an ethical business that actually turned a profit – but I’ve run out of steam. I’m really proud of how visible Boom has managed to be, the kaupapa of fat liberation that I’ve pursued as part of it (even managed to penetrate our national soap opera!). I’ve met so many amazing people, I got to collaborate on a gin, and I have a wardrobe full of all my dream clothes (with pockets!). But it’s time to wrap up now before I’m totally burned out”.
Naturally a business that has always been about taking up space isn’t going to slink out quietly, no matter how much Joanna would like to just be taking a nap in the sunshine right now. So there’s a bunch of events to say goodbye.
First up this weekend is the final pop-up sale in the house of The House of Boom, where you can get 50% off all stock in sizes 16-34, plus a selection of second hand plus size clothes. Can’t make it along in person? You can still shop online.
Friday 13 September: 6pm-9pm (join us for drinks & nibbles at this event)
Saturday 14 September: 11am-4pm
Sunday 15 September: 11am-4pm
189a Grant Road, Thorndon (Gate is on Aorangi Tce).
On 28 September, the House of Boom is putting on a fat swim – Kaukau Momona – Gentle Glow at the Aquadome in Mount Victoria. It’s a chance to get together with other fat babes for a joyful swimming experience. Swim, play, lounge, and relax in a room full of people who look like you. The pool will glow with magical fairy lights in all colours of the rainbow for a beautiful, tranquil evening.
In early November, there’ll be a screening of the documentary Your Fat Friend about author, podcaster and activist Aubrey Gordon (keep an eye on Boom socials for more information)
And then finally there’ll be the annual Camp Boom – a weekend conference of fun and power, featuring speakers, workshops, arts & crafts, gentle movement, wine tasting and the best clothing swap ever. Extremely limited tickets are still available.
Please join the House of Boom for some or all of these events, tell your friends and keep fighting the good fight. Fat liberation is good for everyone.