The Squeeze Co-Founders Johana Marin (left) and Brandy Romero pose in the main space of their newly opened shop.  The pair first met through Instagram, when Romero was looking for small businesses to support and found Marin’s account for her screen-printing business. “I loved sharing the events she posted and visiting her shop,” says Romero. “We instantly became friends.”

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The Squeeze

On April 6th, the City of Orange’s 137th founding anniversary, new business The Squeeze debuted in the space where The Wall restaurant previously stood.  The storefront is split between friends Johana Marin and Brandy Romero.  For the grand opening, Romero says more than a thousand customers flocked to the shop.

Marin runs the screen-printing studio, Casa Lulo, and Romero runs There’s No Place Like Orange, a guide to all things Orange.

“We wanted to bring life back to this corner because you can feel the energy and history here,” says Romero.  “The community here in Orange is so special and sweet.  There really is nothing like it in the world.”

The collaboration began when Romero organized an apparel fundraiser supporting the Orange Firefighter Foundation.  Marin, her friend, volunteered to print sweatshirts at no cost through her hand-screened printing business.

“Johana continues to print everything for me for free, and together we’ve been able to raise so much money,” says Romero.  “I want everyone to know what an amazing heart she has.”

The duo realized they could continue working together to help the city, and The Squeeze was born.

“Once we’re settled, we’re going to offer historic tours, food tours and different workshops for everyone,” says Romero.  “Our proceeds will go toward bringing back community events in Orange.”

Romero describes her half of the store as an unofficial “Orange welcome center” with retail goods like handmade candles, beauty supplies and kid’s toys.

“The space is a full appreciation for Orange because I want to give back to our community,” says Romero.  “It looks like you just jumped into an orange grove.”

Marin’s side includes apparel, accessories and stickers she screen-printed herself.  Once fully situated in the shop, she plans to host workshops to introduce people to small-batch screen-printing.

“I’m loving meeting all these new customers and getting to know everyone in Orange,” says Marin.  “Every morning I’m just excited to come to work.”

Overall, Marin and Romero’s goal with The Squeeze is to celebrate the city and give back to the community, especially by supporting and hosting more events that were cancelled.

The entire shop came together remarkably quickly, in only 18 days.  With the help of many family members, they built a sprawling retail and events space.

“Everyone has been so welcoming, and they love what we’ve created here,” says Marin.  “We’re so grateful.”

The Squeeze
80 Plaza Square, Old Towne Orange, CA 92866
www.TheresNoPlaceLikeOrange.com  /  www.CasaLulo.com