Retail comes home to First National Center

First National Center has brought excitement back to downtown with its standard of excellence in the care and investment of restoring this iconic building. Since opening in April, First National has steadily filled the Gallery, or first-floor concourse of the building, with shopping and dining options that add to its allure.  

“For those of us who worked and frequented downtown in the 80’s and 90’s, the concourse at First National was the center of retail activity,” said partner Gary Brooks. “Our hope is that the redevelopment of First National, which includes the critical retail and service component, will be a catalyst to drive business and residential activity to downtown. There’s never been a better time to experience the fun and excitement of downtown living.” 

Walking through the Gallery you easily see why these businesses have taken up residence in the building. Lucchese’s display of handcrafted boots catches everyone’s eye as they walk past. Established in 1883, the bootmaker prides itself on its elevated customer experience. Worn by presidents, actors, entertainers and royalty, the company has a reputation for high quality and that standard holds true for each person who walks through their doors.  

“We love that people just want to come walk the store. We have a beautiful store so just come in and walk around,” said Patrick West, Lucchese general manager. “I know a lot of people get a little intimidated because of that high-end part, but we like people who want to just come in and explore. We love to talk about the company, we love to talk about our boots and so the more people that want to come and see us, we're looking forward to connecting with them.” 

Creating connections is a sentiment that rings true throughout all the businesses in the Gallery. Drybar owner Pam Nath completely shifted careers from the oil and gas industry to business owner when she saw there was a gap in the market. Expanding downtown wasn’t on her radar until she was presented with the opportunity to collaborate with First National, and she didn’t hesitate to bring the experience of Drybar to its residents and professionals. Beyond connecting with guests and customers, the businesses are working together to succeed.  

“It's such an exciting time for downtown right now, especially this building and the people they're bringing in,” Nath shared. “All the neighbors, everybody's just so nice and wonderful. We're all excited to work together and grow our businesses and service downtown.” 

With The National bringing in visitors from near and far, these businesses are the first impression many have of Oklahoma City and it’s top of mind for everyone, especially PLENTY Mercantile co-founder Traci Walton. Established in 2012, PLENTY Mercantile is known in Oklahoma City for its sustainable and mindfully selected products. Their profound love for the city is what made it an easy decision to come downtown when Brooks reached out. 

“What I love is when people come to The National, they get a feel of what Oklahoma is really like, rather than what they think it's like or what they they've heard it’s like. It’s fun to represent,” shared Walton. “I don't believe there's any other city that has such a supportive retail industry. I mean everybody has always been and remains rooting for each other. All the retailers help each other out. That competitiveness you always hear about, you don't find that here.”  

“And we've seen the same thing at The National. With Lucchese, Drybar and everybody else, we’re working together to make it all work. So that's been fun to see. And then, of course, the people of Oklahoma City have been so good to us. They get how important local retail is and how we help with sales tax and all of that. Oklahoma City appreciates local retail.” 

When you visit each retailer, you can feel the intentionality of why each one has chosen to join First National Center. That continues through to the Barbershop and the eateries that call it home. It’s quickly become a one-stop shop and it’s easy to see why the residents and guests don’t want to leave.