Walking into the actual brick and mortar storefront of Brick and Motor Boutique, 1629 2nd Ave. (yes, you read it right), expect to be warmly greeted with conversation, possibly a warm beverage and definitely decorations to suit the season. The selection of clothes, jewelry, accessories and gifts feels like the owners themselves: vibrant.
Sisters Haley Sparkman and Lauren Corwin have turned what began as a popular mobile boutique on wheels into a thriving Downtown Rock Island business.
At first, the sisters said they weren’t interested in a physical storefront, but that changed after conversations with community leaders, whose support helped make the idea seem possible.
“We knew there weren’t any boutique shops downtown,” Haley said. “It felt like a good opportunity, not just for us, but for the community, too.” And she added, “Having a business with my sister has been such a dream. Entrepreneurship runs in our family and we’ve seen how meaningful it is to put your own blood, sweat and tears into it.”
Being raised and educated in Rock Island means their roots run deep. “We love having Rock Island pride because the city means so much to us.” They say they’ve seen every phase of Downtown Rock Island and are so proud of how far it has come. “Our downtown neighbors are more like family to us.”
Since their opening, they say they’re most proud of two things: the community’s response and the community they’ve built through Brick and Motor. “We feel like we’ve built a little Brick and Motor family through opening our small business.It sincerely warms our hearts and reminds us how important community and local connection really are.”
For anyone thinking about opening a business downtown, their advice is simple. “We would absolutely encourage it,” they said. “Downtown Rock Island has shown us nothing but love and support over the past seven years. Showing up for your neighbors really makes an impact.”
Looking ahead, the sisters are energized by the continued redevelopment of Downtown Rock Island and are encouraged by the region's willingness to embrace their business and shop small instead of big box. “Every week, we hear about a new business or a new project,” they said. “The excitement from the community and the ideas happening downtown make us so excited for the future.”
They imagine a downtown where visitors can walk from shop to shop, grab lunch or drinks and spend an entire afternoon exploring. “With more small businesses opening, that vision doesn’t feel so far away anymore,” they added. “We truly can’t wait for what’s next for Downtown Rock Island.”