Something New on Selby: Rondo Exchange is Open
By Felicia Perry, SUPC Board Chair and RCLT Economic Development Leader
If you’ve traveled down Selby recently, you may have noticed something new at 856 Selby Avenue. Rondo Exchange officially opened on March 21, 2026, bringing a new small business and community space into the neighborhood.
For the past two years, the Rondo Community Land Trust has been developing this space, building out 2,800 square feet at the corner of Selby and Victoria to support local entrepreneurs. The result is Rondo Exchange, a small business incubator that brings together retail, creative work, and community space under one roof.
It is also home to Golden Thyme Cafe, which continues to be a steady presence on Selby and now anchors the space.
Recent coverage from the Star Tribune, Pioneer Press, and Sahan Journal has already started to share the story more broadly, but this is very much a neighborhood space.
A Strong Opening Day
The grand opening on a perfectly sunny Saturday, drew more than 150 people from across the neighborhood and beyond. For a few hours, Selby and Victoria felt full. People gathered outside, connected on the sidewalk, and moved in and out of the space throughout the afternoon.
Inside, visitors met the business owners, shopped, and spent time with one another. Across the four businesses, the day generated more than $5,000 in sales. It was also a record day for Golden Thyme Cafe.
Photos from the event capture that energy, and you can read more about the day here: https://www.rondoclt.org/news/the-debut-of-rondo-exchange
Stop By
Address: 856 Selby Ave, St Paul, MN 55104
Rondo Exchange Hours:
Monday to Friday, 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM
Golden Thyme Cafe Hours:
Monday to Sunday, 6:30 AM to 4:00 PM
You can stop in for coffee, take a look around, and spend some time in the space. It is set up in a way that makes it easy to come in for a quick visit or stay a while slowly sipping your favorite latte.
Meet the Businesses Inside
Rondo Exchange opens with 3 of 4 small businesses in its inaugural cohort. Each one brings something different, and part of the experience is getting to know the people behind the work.
Mind the Crown
Owner: Adrianna Willis
Mind the Crown focuses on rest, boundaries, and joy through self-care products and experiences. You will find affirmation cards, journals, and conversation decks, along with workshops and community events.
Adrianna is also developing Rest in the City, which will bring wellness experiences into neighborhood spaces across St. Paul.
BriiNoir
Owner: Briauna Williams
BriiNoir brings together art and wellness. The space includes prints, handmade products like soaps and shea butter, and information about workshops focused on healing and self-expression.
KP Inspires
Owner: Kprecia Ambers
KP Inspires features bold, vibrant illustration work celebrating Afro beauty and identity. You will see prints, home goods, and other items that make the artwork part of everyday life.
BLovely Production and LaMae Photography
Owner: Bianca Rhodes
This business centers photography, video, and storytelling focused on Black life in Minnesota. In addition to client work, Bianca creates opportunities for freelance creatives and trains young people interested in media.
More Than a Place to Shop
There is also artwork throughout the space from local artists, including Akossiwa Medowokpo (Art Sabine), Amanda Stout, and Shea Maze (Shae Maze Art), with more to come from Jearica Fountain.
Rondo Exchange is a place you can browse, but it also works as a place to meet up, have a conversation, or spend time. You might run into someone you know, or meet someone new.
A Reason to Stop In
If you are looking for a place to:
grab coffee and sit for a bit
support local businesses
find a gift or something for yourself
meet up with a friend
or just see what is new on Selby
Rondo Exchange is worth a visit.
All Grand Opening Photos Credit to: DigieMade Photography
