15 Stories: Kenny Okagaki, Chameleon Vintage, San Francisco, CA

This article features a real customer sharing their real experience. This article contains general information and is not intended to provide information that is specific to American Express, or its products and services. Similar products and services offered by different companies will have different features and you should always read about product details before acquiring any financial product.   

Among the many moments that stand out as memorable, one of Kenny Okagaki’s favorites is when he has the opportunity to watch someone fall in love with vintage clothing for the very first time.     

Here’s how the story tends to go. A hesitant passer-by to his Japantown shop eyes something hanging in the window. Intrigued, they walk into the store, seeming at first a bit reluctant to browse, perhaps unsure if the clothing style is for them. Then, after a few moments, they find themselves eagerly flipping through the clothes hanging neatly on the racks, emerging with those that feel uniquely “them.” They purchase it. A week later, Kenny often finds them back at the store, this time eager to find the next best item that feels right for them.    

Kenny remembers these moments because they remind him of his own personal journey into vintage clothing—finding his first handful of pieces while thrifting and feeling like he uncovered a treasure that had been hidden just for him. He’s even carried this insight into how he approaches Small Business Saturday. Each year, Kenny holds sales events for customers, including by hiding discounts around the store, or placing a grab bin (like a grab bag) in the middle of the store that has unique pieces strewn within.     

While it’s been a boon to Chameleon Vintage’s sales, Kenny appreciates Small Business Saturday® for more than what it does for his bottom line. It reminds him of why he got into the business in the first place. Vintage clothing had been a passion, but as a Yonsei (fourth-generation Japanese American), Kenny is motivated by his identity and carrying on the rich tradition of commerce forged first by the many Japanese American store owners who have opened stores in San Francisco before him.     

American Express has been right there with him. Vintage Chameleon has accepted American Express® Cards since they opened, and Kenny uses American Express business products, including the Amex Blue Business® Plus Card and American Express® Business Checking.*    

Want to learn more about how to encourage your customers to Shop Small on Small Business Saturday? Visit the Small Business Saturday Resource Hub for marketing materials and business insights that can help you engage with your customers and find new ones. You can also read stories from 15 small businesses that have seen success on Small Business Saturday and beyond.  

The material made available for you on this website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to provide legal, tax or financial advice. If you have questions, please consult your own professional legal, tax and financial advisors.   

* Deposit accounts offered by American Express National Bank. Member FDIC.