Today we’d like to introduce you to Alyah Baker.
Hi Alyah, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
After spending over a decade learning about all aspects of retail from the in-store experience to design, merchandising, and buying, I decided to venture out on my own to start a business that reflected my values and aesthetics. Show & Tell was born in 2011 in downtown Oakland, CA, where I lived at the time. I relocated the business back to NC in 2019, when I moved back home.
Show & Tell Concept Shop is a platform for unique, vibrant, inclusive design that promotes Unapologetic Style and Joyful Living. Our carefully curated assortment features our handmade Show & Tell Collection alongside an evolving selection of ethical and sustainable goods from like-minded brands. We believe in socially responsible practices, authentic self-expression, and radical acceptance and celebration of people of color, LGBTQIA+ folks, Women, and other marginalized communities.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
In November 2026, we celebrate 15 years of Show & Tell. So much has happened in those 15 years, and the business has evolved a lot and will keep evolving as I change and as the world changes. Being an entrepreneur is definitely not easy, but I love it. It has been one of the hardest and most rewarding things I have ever done, and I have learned so much. The risks and struggles have really led to some great rewards. Things I could never have imagined. The greatest reward has been the opportunity to build genuine connections with our community of customers and fellow entrepreneurs. Small business owners are the best!
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I’m most proud of building a business that aligns with my values and resisting the pull of fast fashion and AI in favor of handmade goods and IRL experiences. In addition to the products that we make in-house, we also sell amazing goods from other brands we love. I love cheering on and supporting other awesome businesses. The world is truly better when we uplift and celebrate each other.
How do you think about happiness?
So many things make me happy. Color, pattern, textiles, interior design, travel, shopping, good food, dancing and more dancing, watching performances, music, long drives with the windows down on a summer evening, my friends and family.
I love living a life where all my senses are alive!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.showandtelloakland.com
- Instagram: @showtelloakland
