Today we’d like to introduce you to Kelly Sanders.
Hi Kelly, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
love, Pittsburgh was founded in 2017 by Kelly Sanders and Monica Grunick.
Kelly and Monica serendipitously met at a Pittsburgh Technology event in late 2016, instantly bonding over the talent of the Pittsburgh artist and maker community.
When the sunny space on Shiloh Street became available, they envisioned a gift shop to serve the visitors taking in the breathtaking city view from atop Mount Washington.
Starting with 40 talented Pittsburgh artists, and a sprinkling of magic, love, Pittsburgh was born on the fourth of July, 2017. love, Pittsburgh has expanded to include Downtown and Strip District locations, as well as now feature more than 100 local artists and makers.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
The road has been curvy, like a roller coaster: filled with slow climbs, exhilarating wins, and moments when it felt like we might jump the tracks entirely, especially during COVID. Through every twist and turn, our mission to support and showcase local small businesses has remained steady, and the community’s continued support has carried us forward. What began as a dream has grown into something far greater than we could have imagined, built on connection, resilience, and a shared love for shopping local
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
love, Pittsburgh is a small business built to support over 100 other local small businesses.
Through our three brick-and-mortar stores and online shop, we proudly showcase the work of local makers, artists, and entrepreneurs who make Pittsburgh special.
Our dream team of Pittsburgh devotees is always ready to welcome visitors and locals alike—helping them discover local treasures, decode Pittsburghese, find the perfect gift, and connect through friendly conversation. Every visit is an opportunity to celebrate the people, stories, and creativity that make our city feel like home. ❤️
Risk taking is a topic that people have widely differing views on – we’d love to hear your thoughts.
Over the years, we’ve taken risks big and small. Like testing new products, launching original collections, creating new customer experiences, and exploring opportunities beyond traditional retail. Some ideas have become bestsellers. Others have taught us valuable lessons.
Our willingness to experiment led us to open gift shops in hotel lobbies, bringing local Pittsburgh makers directly to visitors. It inspired us to create our sister brand, love,, a concept rooted in self-gifting, comfort, and meaningful everyday goods. It pushes us to continually test new products, partnerships, events, and ways to connect with our community.
We believe innovation doesn’t happen by playing it safe. We embrace curiosity, trust our instincts, and give ourselves permission to try. When something works, we celebrate it. When it doesn’t, we learn from it and move forward.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://lovepittsburghshop.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lovepittsburghshop
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lovepittsburghshop
