My Big Finds is celebrating its 10-year anniversary this month. What began as a three-month pop-up in a small retail space has grown into a decade-long community fixture filled with character, creativity, and connection.
Owner Jodi Rapaport opened My Big Finds in December 2014 after years of commuting to a corporate job in Bethesda and dreaming of something more meaningful. During one of those drives, the name of her future shop came to her, inspired by the initials of her two children. When she noticed an empty storefront in her own neighborhood, she asked the landlord for a short-term lease. They agreed, and the pop-up became a permanent part of the Kentlands.
Jodi and her husband figured out everything from point-of-sale systems to product sourcing as they went. The learning curve was steep, but the excitement of building something from scratch kept them pushing forward. Hiring high school students quickly became a core part of the store’s identity, giving young people their first real job experiences and creating bonds that have extended long after graduation.
The Kentlands was an obvious choice for the store’s home. Jodi has lived in the neighborhood for two decades, raised her children here, and built friendships through everyday interactions with customers. Over the years, My Big Finds became a place where residents stopped in not just to shop but to reset, decompress, and reconnect.
The pandemic revealed just how deeply rooted the store had become in the community. With indoor shopping restricted, My Big Finds created an online store, hosted Facebook Live sessions, offered FaceTime personal shopping, and hand-delivered orders to customers who wanted to keep the shop going. Even small purchases made a meaningful difference. The support showed Jodi that the store had become a true neighborhood staple.
My Big Finds is known for its eclectic mix of vintage items, small business products, and fair trade goods that fill the shop from floor to ceiling. Jodi calls it her “cozy clutter escape from reality,” a space where customers can explore, discover, and feel a sense of joy. Standout items over the years have included salvaged memorabilia from the former Star Diner across the street, as well as the store’s famously cozy blankets that became a top-selling gift.
Jodi has met customers in airports, cities across the country, and even internationally. She has received messages, photos, and condolences during personal moments, all of which reflect the relationships built through the store.
Operating a small business has brought challenges, including navigating changing regulations, adapting to rising online shopping, and adjusting to three different store locations. Jodi believes relationships are the foundation of her success. Every customer is greeted, whether they are middle schoolers, seniors, families with dogs, or longtime regulars. Many say the store feels like a reward, a place to escape reality and enjoy a moment of calm.
The 10-year celebration takes place from December 5 to 7 with exclusive merchandise, giveaways, a Friday night party, and a hot cider donut truck. Pop-ups with local small businesses continue to be a central part of the store’s mission, offering exposure to makers and bringing fresh experiences to customers.
Reflecting on the past decade, Jodi feels most proud of the impact the store has had on young employees and the wider community. Many of the teens who worked at My Big Finds have moved on to careers, marriages, and new chapters, yet remain connected. Seeing them grow has been one of the most meaningful parts of her journey.
Jodi focuses on evolving with each season rather than planning too far ahead. Spring will bring new vintage pieces, refreshed layouts, and curated finds that reflect the spirit of the shop. She remains motivated by the people she meets, the stories they share, and the joy they find within the store.
