Though Grand Junction has rarely been associated with high fashion in the past, two Colorado Mesa University (CMU) students have partnered their businesses to open a unique and experiential clothing store right on campus.
“It can be hard for [students] to go to the mall or wherever–well, we’re on campus. If they need a new fit for class the next day, they can come down here and find a shirt, some pants and even a pair of shoes,” senior in business marketing and clothing pop-up owner Bryce Lacayo said.
This store opened last year after senior in business marketing, Jacob Mackey, won the Maverick Marketplace competition’s first prize: a location on-campus to sell his product.
Mackey founded the company, “Affentiko” during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic with a lifelong friend from his hometown of Houston, Texas. The brand is best described as “an exciting take on urban streetwear.”
Because of the new and niche nature of Mackey’s style, he began to consider partnering up with another young, emerging retailer. Lacayo and his business, “Kix N’ Thrifts” proved to be the best option.
“It was hard to draw people to the store just with my own personal brand, as it’s still in the building process, and I knew that Bryce resold vintage clothing and sneakers,” Mackey said. “[I knew it would] be a great addition to the store. It’s not competition brand-wise, but rather adds more diverse clothing. So I hit him up, and we have been a good team ever since.”
Aside from the clothes themselves, there are many aspects of the student-run store which make it a must-visit. Mackey and Lacayo often host events in the store, such as Madden tournaments. Mackey even enjoys DJing in the shop during his free time. Yet, one of the biggest advantages is its proximity to students on-campus.
“I worked for Griz Entertainment as well, so I actually DJ weddings almost every weekend,” Mackey said. “So, on weekdays when I’m out of class, I like to come in here and practice. I want to create a better vibe in here, and it definitely helps to have music while people are shopping.”
The storefront is located on the basement floor of the Maverick Innovation Center, which is on the corner of North 7th Street and Mesa Avenue. You can follow the individual brands’ Instagrams @kix.thrifts and @affentiko.
