We are Kayla and Eric
She, an independent yarn dyer with a heart for color and hospitality. He, a book seller with 20 years experience, a passion for quality literature and a good coffee brew. The only way for The Underground to happen was for them to meet.
They met on a blind date.
From their very first conversation Kayla and Eric knew that they had something special...just how special, they wouldn't really know until they pushed each other to keep dreaming and keep creating. Concepts for this store were talked about as far-away future plans, maybe after retirement age, maybe on a beach somewhere, until they discussed themselves into the questioning of "why not right here, right now?"
As they curiously pursued each and every step things every so gently fell into place; an incredible location, the kindest of coffee brewers, the yarn connections, book customers from Eric's past. It has truly all been meant to be throughout the whole journey thus far.
Kayla has crocheted for years but began dying yarn in January 2023, only learning about the craft through an Instagram rabbit-hole. Much to her surprise she found great success amongst her local yarn crowd. The demand for her product was steadily growing as she continued to work her educational day job. Kayla just finished 10 years with the Harrisburg City School District and has now taken the big leap to dye yarn full time and manage the daily operations of The Underground. With a background in mental health, she is most passionate in the therapeutic benefits that fiber crafts, color, and community can bring to individuals.
Eric has always been a lover of books and stories. His biggest claim to fame is that he once asked for a dictionary for Christmas as a child, which he promptly received. Spending nearly 20 years in the book industry, both in big-box book retail and other independent book stores, Eric has always dreamed of owning his own store one day. He values connecting with customers and having a recommendation for them that they would never expect, and yet be satisfied with. A valuer of off-the-beaten-path/alternative reads Eric spends a great deal of time researching independent publishers and authors who truly love the craft of writing and story telling. He is excited to bring his finds to The Underground.
Sporting their love for Red Rooster, The Underground's coffee roaster from Floyd, VA.