Bike life-style model Iron & Velvet opens in downtown Leavenworth

By TAYLOR CALDWELL
Ward Media Staff Reporter

LEAVENWORTH — New motorcycle-inspired life-style model Iron & Velvet opened its flagship retailer in downtown Leavenworth on Sept. 20.

Founded by Leavenworth residents York and Melanie Baur, the model creates attire and life-style merchandise impressed by the bike tradition of genuine self-expression, taking dangers, and pursuing journey. 

“We want people to have this be an experience – not just come in and buy something and get out. We want people to feel this, think about it for themselves, immerse themselves in it and enjoy hanging out,” stated York Baur.

Along with Iron & Velvet’s personal line, the shop additionally carries official Harley-Davidson merchandise, making it Leavenworth’s first official retailer for the enduring model. The Baurs say their purpose is to welcome all walks of life – riders and non-riders alike – into the world and tradition of driving.

Inside, guests can climb onto a Harley-Davidson or a BMW sport bike to think about themselves on the highway. A customized patch bar lets clients create one-of-a-kind items that mirror their very own type. By mid-October, an in-store bar and lounge will even open, giving buyers a spot to loosen up and join.

Most notably, the shop poses a query that units the intention of all the expertise: “What would you do if you weren’t afraid?”

“We’re using the motorcycle metaphor as a way for people to feel that in themselves and answer that…and hopefully live a little more by just taking that much more risk in their lives, whether they ride a motorcycle ever or not, that’s not the point – the point is to take agency,” stated Baur.

For Baur, a lot of the imaginative and prescient behind the model has been formed by his personal lifetime of driving, not solely from discovering a way of freedom and journey, but in addition witnessing the camaraderie and accessibility that comes with driving.

“You can’t pull up on any motorcycle without some conversation starting,” stated Baur. “When you pull up on a bike in your gear, no one can tell who you are…There’s this camaraderie within motorcycle riding, because you have to sort of accept everybody.”

That sense of connection has carried over into the launching of Iron & Velvet. As a former tech govt, Baur says he has embraced the credo of taking dangers by launching the model, crediting its success to each the Baurs’ expert crew and the camaraderie and help of the area people.

“It’s been wonderful to see firsthand how collaborative and welcoming the community is generally, and specifically the business community in Leavenworth…Business owners have just gone out of their way to encourage us,” stated Baur.

Iron & Velvet is positioned downstairs at 833 Front Street. The Baurs hope to finally develop the model past the flagship retailer, rising its on-line presence and doubtlessly opening extra places, all whereas staying true to the model’s adventurous and self-expressive ethos.

Taylor Caldwell: 509-433-7276 or taylor@ward.media