30 years of WEEKENDS

Schopbach was born and raised in Colorado, and he attended Colorado State University, graduating with a degree in fashion merchandising. Before switching majors, Schopbach was studying medicine and it wasn’t until he worked at a men’s clothing store, called J. Pitner Clothing Co., that he found his passion for fashion and entrepreneurship. Founder John Pitner was not only a mentor for Schopbach, but also a later business partner in the early days of WEEKENDS and a longtime friend. Pitner taught Schopbach the importance of being passionate and getting to know their customers, which has become ingrained in WEEKENDS’ culture. 

After graduation, Schopbach was accepted into a L.A. buying program at J.W. Robinson’s department stores, which developed his skills in buying, planning and merchandising in retail. 

“I learned how to deal with vendors on that scale and the numbers part of the business, but it also made me quickly realize what I wanted to do was have my own business and make my own buying decisions,” said Schopbach.

After several years in LA, he decided to return to Colorado, and in the 1990, he opened his own store in Boulder, WEEKENDS, a fashion-forward store that has lasted decades.

WEEKENDS showcases a carefully curated collection of the finest men’s and women’s contemporary and design clothing, footwear and accessories.

With six full time employees, the team is close knit. There are two men’s buyers, Schopbach himself and Derek Falls; two women’s buyers, Rachel Steinberg and Katie Loomis Weinstein; social media and marketing specialist, Regan Heinrichs; and a floor manager, Daphne Herrick. In addition, Schopbach hires part-time sales associates and interns. Currently, two undergraduate students at the University of Colorado Boulder hold these positions. Faryn Kravitz is an intern and Mary Claire Carlson is a part-time sales associate.

“The team over the years have been like family,” said Schopbach. Loomis Weinstein, who has been an employee for almost 11 years considers John to be her “surrogate family.”

“This is the bright spot of COVID,” said Schopbach about his team’s abilities when facing adversities. “It allowed me to step back and allow my team to jump in [and brainstorm]. It is all grass roots.”

Derek Falls, who has been with WEEKENDS for almost 15 years as a men’s buyer, explains “at the core, we are all seller’s first.” He credits the store’s success to Schopbach’s attention to the small details, which has impacted the longevity of the business. 

“I was drawn to WEEKENDS because it was an independent business,” said Falls. 

Before the pandemic, from a buyers’ standpoint, the team would travel to New York City and Europe for fashion week, creating interpersonal relationships with vendors and exploring new brands. For Falls, he describes these trips as a “romance” to draw inspiration and continue to innovate. Because of the pandemic, these opportunities have been temporarily lost. But that did not stop Schopbach from finding new ways to curate experiences and opportunities. 

“We miss our regulars,” said Falls. Foot traffic may be quiet, but the store has discovered avenues to deliver a unique, customized experience to their customers. 

From making personal deliveries to customers in Boulder County to redesigning the website and receiving newsletters outlining new products, restock updates and discount opportunities, customers can continue to experience a redefined shopping experience.