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Portland, OR

Supporting store expansion and staffing to grow an up-cycled fashion and art retail space.

• Experienced founder: Led by an internationally recognized artist and photographer with a strong fashion background.
• Sustainability focus: Promotes circular fashion through up-cycled products and eco-conscious operations.
• Community presence: Recognized as one of Portland’s top resale shops with strong local engagement.
• Creative expansion: Developing new branded product lines including oils, jewelry, and expanded rave wear.
• Operational growth: Funding supports space improvements, hiring, and inventory scaling.

Alien Mermaid Cove is raising funds to support the continued growth and operational development of its up-cycled fashion and art retail store based in Portland, Oregon. The company plans to use proceeds to expand inventory, improve store layout and functionality, and hire additional staff to meet rising customer demand. As a woman-owned small business focused on sustainability, the shop has become a destination for community members seeking unique, eco-conscious fashion and accessories. The funding will allow Alien Mermaid Cove to further enhance its space, better organize its offerings, and improve the overall customer experience while scaling operations.

The investment will also support the expansion of the company’s in-house up-cycled fashion line, Altered States, and the development of a new brand under the Alien Mermaid Cove name. Founder Teresa Flowers brings a strong artistic background to the venture, with recognition both as a fine art photographer and visual artist. The company also plans to broaden its product mix to include new categories such as oils, rave wear, and jewelry, while expanding its men’s section and seasonal offerings like Halloween costumes. With growing interest in circular fashion and local artistic expression, Alien Mermaid Cove aims to increase its reach and solidify its presence within Portland’s creative economy.

Company Info

Alien Mermaid Cove is a Portland retail shop offering up-cycled fashion, accessories, and local art in an eco-conscious, artist-driven environment.

Alien Mermaid Cove is a Portland-based retail shop specializing in up-cycled clothing, accessories, and locally crafted art and home goods. Founded during the COVID pandemic by photographer and artist Teresa Flowers, the store emphasizes eco-conscious fashion and creative expression, offering items like rave wear, jewelry, and curated gifts in a “come-as-you-are” atmosphere. The business has become a community hub that merges fashion with visual art, reflecting Teresa’s background in photography and her recognition in the Portland arts scene.

The store’s in-house brand, Altered States, focuses on transforming used garments into new, unique designs. Future plans include expanding inventory capacity, improving retail space, and growing product lines to include a broader range of apparel, accessories, and a new line of oils and Halloween items. Alien Mermaid Cove also aims to scale its proprietary brand offerings under its own label, reflecting a commitment to sustainability, individuality, and creative retail experiences.