Earlier this year I blogged about traditional retail being passe and, on my daughters suggestion, that I was going to reduce the inventory in our Flag And Banner (FAB) retail store. Well, since then I have decided to go even further and take another business risk.
My creative business brain wants to completely move FAB’s big 1,200 square ft storefront into a smaller, more efficient space in our back warehouse, complete with a new side entrance and a reimagined retail model. We’re calling it a smart downsize, and it aligns with how today’s consumers shop; fast, online, and curiously. I mean, who doesn’t want to shop the back warehouse, like Sam’s Club, and see the mechanics of a business.
To mark this transition, clear the showroom of merchandise, and celebrate our 50-year anniversary we’re planning a huge Labor Day Sale. Everything must go!
A Chance Encounter That Sparked a Big Idea
This bold shift began earlier in the year, when I serendipitously met Mr. Joe Johnson from Nashville.
It happened one night while Grady and I were staying at the Moxie Hotel near Vanderbilt University and we ventured across the street to a restaurant called Supper Club.
With no tables available, we sat at the bar. As we relaxed into the evening, we noticed our surroundings, groovy jazz music, sophisticated Black patrons, and a warm elegant vibe. With a little bourbon on the brain, a creative business idea began to blossom, “This style restaurant would be great in the Taborian Hall.”
Meet Joe Johnson, Jazz Saxophonist and Restaurateur
I asked the bartender for the owner’s name and lo and behold turns out he was sitting right next to me! We became fast friends. Joe Johnson is a Grammy winning saxophone player who is now in his 50’s and along with another fellow musician started a restaurant group serving both Memphis and Nashville and they are interested in the Little Rock area.
Together we dreamed of his Supper Club in the historic Taborian Hall, serving both the public and catering events in the beloved Dreamland Ballroom on the third floor. Although we’ve kept in touch and talk often, Joe’s busy touring schedule has made it tough to move the project forward. I still hold out hope but have decided to wait no longer.
Restaurant Space Now Available in Little Rock
Soon I will put a sign in the window of the Taborian Hall saying:
Restaurant Space Available
Will build to suit.
1,200 sq ft + Kitchen
If someone with restaurant experience steps forward, great! But, if not, this vision can’t be stopped, even if I must do it myself.
What’s Next for the Historic Taborian Hall?
In 2026 I plan to learn about the business of restaurants and start transforming the really cool first floor of the Taborian Hall into a new space. Some style or combination of a restaurant, jazz bar, or full-service catering for the Dreamland Ballroom events.
You know me, I love business change! But I guess not in the business of men. Today, June 27th, I’ve been married to the same man for 38 years.
Happy Anniversary, Honey.
About The Author
Kerry McCoy has been in the American flag and banner business for over 50 years, founding Arkansas Flag and Banner in 1975, which has operated as FlagandBanner.com since 1995. Her insights into patriotic trends, and flag sales patterns come from decades of serving customers across America during times of celebration, crisis, and everything in between.
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