Everett couple turns creative hobbies into vibrant business  

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EVERETT, SEPT. 2: Northwest Everett will soon be gaining a new vintage store, restaurant, and bike shop all in one. 

Located at 1502 Rucker Avenue, Wheel and House will offer a variety of services including bike repairs, vintage shopping and house-made food and drinks. Once established, customers can expect live music performances from local artists.

The building itself has been around since 1920, with its occupants ranging from a grocery store to a meat market. New owners Betty DoWright and Johnny Latenite are hoping their new business provides a sense of community. 

The couple met at a Mardi Gras celebration in 2017 and attribute their love of dance and music for bringing them together. Now, they look forward to replicating the same fun, comfortable spaces that united them.

“Food can bring everyone together,” Latenite said. “And if you bring in food and music, you can make a lot of people happy.”

A bike mechanic with more than 25 years of experience, Latenite grew up in Texas with a passion for fixing bikes. He plans to offer wheel builds, tune-ups, paint jobs, and more. He sees bikes as a great way for people to connect with those around them.

On the vintage side, DoWright is originally from Virginia and has been a collector for years. Not only will she source a large array of clothes and accessories, but she also wants to prioritize helping customers feel confident in what they are wearing.

“Dressing in vintage clothing for me is like the ability to put on a different persona, or a different energy on a day-to-day basis,” DoWright said. “I can work with customers to help find what fits them, and hopefully it’ll be something they can take out into the world.”

Wheel and House plans to have its grand opening in mid-September. The day will include samplings of their menu, which offers pulled pork tacos, chili, and various types of ice cream and coffee.

Hours of operation will be coming soon. For the latest updates, see their website here.

Inside Wheel and House located in Northwest Everett. Photo taken by Nneoma Anamelechi.
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