See inside: Local jewelry brand KIKI to open Camp North End storefront
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Charlotte jewelry brand KIKI will open its first permanent store at Camp North End on Saturday, Aug. 16.
Why it matters: Known for its waterproof and hypoallergenic gold-filled jewelry, the pop-up-turned-permanent shop joins a growing list of local businesses in one of Charlotte's most talked-about developments.
Catch up quick: Local entrepreneur Kris Cox founded the brand during the pandemic as a hobby. You may have spotted him, or picked up one of his pieces, at events like Front Porch Sundays, Mistletoe Market at Camp North End and pop-ups at other local businesses like Room Service.
- "The girls who are heavy into pool days or the gym love buying our earrings because they can keep them in all the time," Cox tells Axios.
What to expect: KIKI's products are all 18-karat gold, filled with a stainless steel base.
- The brand is primarily known for its gold hoop earrings but offers everything from rings and pendants to anklets.
- Last week, Cox launched KIKI's "brother brand" called "Daddy," which sells gender-neutral accessories that are more masculine-looking.
Zoom in: Cox has also leveraged the brand as a means of connection, something he hopes to continue doing at the store by hosting events for local women-led groups.
The big picture: KIKI is the latest retailer announced at Camp North End, following a handful of new businesses that have opened or announced they will open there this summer.
- A candy shop called Life is Sweet opened Aug. 13.
- Popular food stall Eggroll Company will open a restaurant later this summer.
- Earlier this summer, a new bodega called Surefire Market opened in the former Leah & Louise spot.
- Oh My Ganache, a B-Y-O cheesecake spot, opened in June.
- Voyage, a women's boutique dedicated to travel, also opened there in June.
- "Camp is growing really fast, and it just has a great vibe over there," Cox said.
Stop by: KIKI is at 1824 Statesville Ave., in The Boileryard District, next to Thrift Pony, Gravity Pizza and Canteen.
- It'll be open Tuesday through Saturday from 11am—7pm, and Sunday from 12pm—6pm.
What's next: KIKI will start offering permanent jewelry in October.
Go deeper: Everything there is to see, eat and do at Camp North End
Editor's note: This story was originally published in July and updated in August with photos of the business.