FPA hosts ribbon-cutting for Botánica de Santee
May 4, 2022
Navy Veteran and Connecticut Native Opens Latinx-Inspired Boutique in Five Points
The Five Points Association, along with the City of Columbia’s Economic Development Office and Office of Business Opportunities, hosted a grand opening and ribbon-cutting for Botánica de Santee on Wednesday, May 4. Located at 724 Santee Avenue, Botánica de Santee is opening in the former “Dr. Books Five Points Book Shop . The previous business in that location closed in 2012.
Botánica de Santee is a Latinx, Afro-Caribbean inspired unisex clothing and accessory boutique that has been three years in the making. Wayne Pankey, the owner, has taken his love of fashion, art and music and combined them all into a one-of-a-kind shopping experience reminiscent of some of the funky, eclectic NYC shops – such as House of Nubian or Mondo Kim’s – that he frequented when growing up in Connecticut.
“Wayne has created one of the most unique boutiques in Five Points,” said Katy Renfroe, Association Manager of the Five Points Association. “He’s taken inspiration from the Latin and Santería cultures and also uses a lot of serape in his designs; these all culminate in such a cool way in his store’s product offerings.”
Pankey is a Navy veteran from Connecticut’s “Gold Coast” who relocated to Columbia in 2013. Once you walk into his store, you can see that he has a real passion for music, the arts, fashion and food.
“The Five Points village was my introduction to Columbia. I’m a big foodie, and one of the first things I do when arriving to a new area is to research the food scene,” says Pankey. “The Gourmet Shop caught my eye, and it is one of the coolest eateries I’ve ever visited – in addition to having delicious food. Since then, I’ve visited most – if not all – of the businesses and eateries in the village,” he says. “I thought how cool it would be to start something of my own in the area, and that opportunity arose in 2019 when I noticed a simple ‘For Rent’ sign in a window on Santee Avenue.”
About Botánica de Santee
Funky Latinx and Afro-Caribbean-inspired unisex clothing and accessory boutique in the heart of Five Points on Santee Avenue.
About the Five Points Association
As an advocate for the district’s businesses, the Five Points Association strives to guide development and improvements that will enhance the vitality of Five Points. The FPA also works diligently to promote Five Points to Columbia and beyond while cultivating inclusivity internally as a neighborhood. Evident by over 100 years of history, viability and recognition as an iconic locale, the success of Five Points would not be possible without the reciprocating support between the neighboring businesses, support staff, partners and companionship of the City of Columbia and Richland County.
While fostering those relationships, supporting the businesses, and continuously showcasing Five Points and its treasures, the Five Points Association and its Board of Directors continue the beautification, collaboration and development efforts to empower growth, upholding the historic legacy of Columbia’s original village neighborhood. For over 100 years, Five Points has grown, evolved and been an icon in Columbia and beyond! For nearly forty years, the Five Points Association has led remarkable endeavors and continues the legacy of priceless accomplishments.
