What are you ...? with Pat Kroblin, Deco District store owner
BY NOUR HABIB World Scene Writer
Thursday, December 27, 2012
12/27/12 at 4:21 AM
Pat Kroblin, a longtime Tulsa public relations and marketing professional, opened a store in the downtown Deco District this month.
"The Full Deco," which Kroblin co-owns with her daughter, Sarah Bryson, sells a mixture of items, including made-in-Oklahoma products and scarves, jewelry and candles that can be used as gifts. The store also doubles as a convenience store, selling items such as toilet paper, dog food, pain aids, candy bars and some fresh fruit.
"What really got us started is that we both live and work in the downtown area, and we noticed that there were holes," Kroblin said. "We kept hearing people say, 'I can't get this,' 'Nothing is open after 5 o'clock.' "
"Finally, we said, 'We believe in downtown, we believe that the Deco District is the next place that's going to sky rocket, and we want to be part of it.' And we see a need. And who doesn't want to be needed?"
We talked to Kroblin about her love of Tulsa, her plans for the new year and her personal goals.
... loving about Tulsa?
I moved here in 1983 for one month. That's how long I thought I was going to stay. The people are open, and they're kind. You have that Midwest feel. I love the cost of living in Tulsa. I love the variety that you are offered here in Tulsa, from the arts and from the restaurants. And it's a heck of a good place to raise a child.
... hoping to see happen here next year?
I'm hoping, selfishly, that the Deco District in downtown just takes off like wildfire. And I hope that more money is invested for our school systems because if we're going to continue to be that place that attracts young people who come for a month and stay forever, we're going to have much better school systems.
... hoping to accomplish, personally, in 2013?
A lot of my work has been with nonprofit organizations, so I kind of use that as my excuse saying I've done good in the world. But I think it's time for me to find a new way to give of my time in Tulsa.
... hoping will be your next vacation?
If wishes were horses and beggars rode free, I would say my next vacation would be like that "Marigold" movie and I would go to India.
... doing for New Year's?
I used to be in radio in Tulsa, so I used to have to be one of those celebrities at the big hotel parties. All of a sudden, I find myself single with a grown-up daughter and nowhere purposeful to be at New Year's, so I don't know. But I'm sure it's going to involve Champagne.
... treating yourself to this holiday season?
My daughter's friends from high school and college come back to town for the holidays, and I get to have them over for dinner and play the mom again and feed them copious amount of food.
Original Print Headline: What are you ... ? with Pat Kroblin The Full Deco owner
Nour Habib 918-581-8369
nour.habib@tulsaworld.com
Associated Images:
Pat Kroblin, owner of The Full Deco, stands in the downtown Tulsa shop. Gifts, snack food and a small selection of grocery items are available at the store. MATT BARNARD / Tulsa World
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