Project Highlight

IndY Retail Strategy

Creating pathways for creative businesses to establish a downtown presence through strategic real estate partnerships. Supported by the City of Indianapolis and GANGGANG.

Startup 317 Highlights

WDRFA – A Boutique with Purpose
Mike Gillis and Gary Patterson transformed their retail expertise into WDRFA, an upscale boutique housed in Indianapolis’s historic Stutz Building. Drawing from their experience with major retailers like Lids and the Colts Pro Shop, this uncle-nephew duo has created a brand that blends high-end streetwear with meaningful symbolism. Their collections of sweats, nylon pants, and T-shirts consistently sell out, resonating with the city’s creative community. The brand name, “We Don’t Run From Adversity,” reflects their commitment to inspiration through design, with each piece incorporating thoughtful social commentary and family tributes. As IUPUI graduates, they’ve established themselves as significant players in Indianapolis’s fashion scene, bringing their vision of refined, purposeful streetwear to life.

In The Mix Highlights

GANGGANG’S “In The Mix” is an initiative designed to create avenues for Black-owned creative businesses to initiate or grow their retail presence in downtown Indianapolis and other significant commercial areas.

Led by Cat Consulting’s Catherine Esselman in equal partnership with Anthony Murdock II, Esselman utilized her expertise in commercial real estate to craft and negotiate agreements between landlords and established Black-owned enterprises to bring this opportunity to life.

Featured Press

Indianapolis Business Journal

Q&A with Catherine Esselman on reimagining real estate

January 3, 2025

Indianapolis Reporter

Former St’Artup 317 brand opens Mass Ave storefront

December 20, 2024

IndyStar

These Indy startups needed a boost. The city stepped in with vacant real estate.

September 5, 2024

Explore All Press

Economic Development & Retail Strategy Specialist

Catherine Esselman

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Explore Other Projects

The INDEX Visitor Center & Gift Shop

NBA All-Star Real Estate Coordination

Indianapolis Retail Strategy

Startup 317, In The Mix

Get In Touch

Phone: (317) 432-2763
Email: [email protected]
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/catherineesselman

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