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Interview with Entrepreness Gretchen Alley of Bernadettes.com

May 28, 2010 by Katelin | Comments (0)



As the technology of consumerism evolves, bringing Internet flash sales to our fingertips and online-only promotions to our PDA’s, there’s no denying the convenience of this new Internet-centric style of shopping. However, according to Gretchen Alley, owner of the sophisticated and well-stocked online boutique: Bernadettes.com, there’s no substitute for personalized service and a unique inventory. Though traditionally found in brick-and-mortar establishments, Gretchen has created the perfect hybrid of online convenience with the venerability of a well-seasoned vintage shop. The inventory at Bernadette’s is comprised of hand-selected pieces of distinction from all over the world, thanks to Gretchen’s many international connections, whose paramount focus is providing items steeped in the richness of traditional craftsmanship and the thrill of rare designer finds. A visit to Bernadette’s is the perfect cure to the familiar frustrations of gift giving and the occasional personal pampering. In a world where new doesn’t always mean improved, this sweet online boutique seems to prove that a happy balance truly does exist.

Hi Gretchen, tell us a little about yourself.
I’m originally from Austin, Texas and I did real estate and investments for my family while I was there. After my husband passed away, I decided I needed to do something different, so I moved to Jackson Hole, Wyoming and stayed there for about eight years. I moved to Portland when my son came out here, and now I travel between here, Jackson Hole, and Austin.

Do you find differences in personal style between cities?
Yes, it’s interesting. There’s a lot of cowboy culture in Wyoming, in the art, music, etc. But then there’s a whole different group there as well. A friend of mine has a very high-end boutique there and she goes to Paris, Milan, New York, London … So it’s an interesting combination of the Western culture and a lot of money from Chicago and the East Coast.

What is you target clientele?
My target market is men, and women between 25 and about 40 with disposable income, who are looking for something they can’t find anywhere else. They’re shopping for someone who has everything in the world, or maybe for someone who is looking for a particular bag or accessory and just can’t find what they want. I think that a lot of people find that they want certain things but they just don’t have a lot of time to look for them, it’s not the focus of their day. If a friend knows you’re looking for it and they stumble across it, it’s pretty neat. Not like a Jimmy Choo from Bergdorf’s that anyone can get, this is a Louis Vuitton vintage flat that isn’t made anymore.

Also men who have women friends who are demanding. It’s not so much that they can use the present, but that the guy listened and got something unique for them. They didn’t just go to Jared.

What makes the Bernadette’s shopping experience unique?
When you go shopping it feels like you see the same thing everywhere. Somebody gets a good idea and everyone else copies it. At Bernadette’s I have items that are very unique. Some are just junky fun, for white elephant gifts and such, and others things are really special. Many of my friends whom I consider to be pretty high-end shoppers comment on my pieces saying things like ‘I had no idea that even existed,’ like the Halston compacts I carry. There are some listed on Ebay but mine are new and unused. And that’s what I look for. I used to have an antique shop in Austin, and from there I have great connections with what I call ‘pickers’. They’re people that I know from years back, they travel all over, and they know me and what I’m looking for. If they find something that they think is really unique they pick it up for me. I also travel, and what we all look for above everything else is uniqueness beyond simply what you could find at an average vintage store.

How often do you travel?
More than I’d like to. Oftentimes I’ll take little driving trips, that way you can find interesting out of the way places on the road. Sometimes you don’t find anything, maybe just a good place to eat, but other times you find amazing places to stop along the way. Having connections with my ‘pickers’ also helps, because they can do some of the shopping for me. Don’t you ever find that when you’re shopping just to look, you find something that you just love, but you don’t need it? That’s where it’s fun for them, because they can shop and still pick things up because they know I’ll take it. When they send the pieces to me, it’s like Christmas!


In your opinion, what is the benefit to buying vintage?
The way I see it, there’s really nothing new in the market, if you study fashion you can see that a lot of the items that come out have already been done, just changed a little bit. And sometimes I don’t think they change it for the better. So if you’re buying vintage, you’re buying a lot of the originals. There are few designers that are doing things that are so incredible, and you just want to get their things just hold on to them for ten or fifteen years down the road, but there’s not a lot of that today. So buying vintage means you’re getting the original look. A lot of times you’re getting better quality. A lot of jewelry I have is costume jewelry, but there’s a difference between the costume jewelry of today that’s disposable and that of the 1940’s and 50’s, it’s really hard to tell that they aren’t real. That’s hard to get today, you just don’t have the craftsmen to produce it.

I imagine your own collection is full of great pieces. Do you have a favorite piece or designer?
I’ll always pick up David Webb jewelry and original Halstons. And a lot of times it just depends on the condition, it may be something I love, but many times people try to repair jewelry but they don’t take it to someone with a lot of experience of the era they’re restoring. Kind of like people who polish silver to where there’s none of the black left, and you’re like ‘my God it looks like it’s stainless steel!’ So if you don’t know who to take it to, then it’s ruined, in those cases I don’t purchase the pieces.

You donate a percentage of proceeds of to a charity of choice each quarter. How do you choose the charities?
From friends. Bernadette is my puppy, and I really feel for animals, so a lot of it is animal related charities. I don’t know if it will stay that way, but a lot of these animal charities don’t get the publicity they need.

What are some challenges to being an Internet entrepreneur?
Having had both online and storefront shops, I think the challenge is the same: getting the word out. It just goes on forever, and I’m always working on it. There’s always somebody out there newer, so you’re fighting that. And sometimes, you just can’t buy the advertising, it has to be word of mouth. And what I’m trying to do with Bernadette’s, the website, is make it into the store that maybe your mother or grandmother would have gone into years ago, with that personal touch. Where they could actually talk to the owner, and feel that they really cared about you and making you happy. So if you want your note written a special way, or name spelled a certain way, and it’s a handwritten note that comes to you with your package, we’ll do that. Also, the wrapping is beautiful and its’ wrapped so that when it comes to you, you can open it and see if you really like what you bought. I hate when I buy something to give to someone else, and it’s wrapped in a way that I don’t get to see and handle it. We do our wrapping so that you can open it and then wrap it back up and it looks the same. To me, that’s important. The fact that you can text, call, email us and we’ll get back to you with more pictures, or whatever you need. It’s about service, and I think that’s something that’s really missing in society today. I’m hoping that is what makes Bernadette’s special.

What are your plans for the future of Bernadettes?
I would like for more people to know we’re out there, that’s one thing. And just to keep searching for that very special item that maybe someone bought a long time ago, never wore, and stuck in the back of their closet, left in perfect condition. Those are great finds! Give us a try, and you’ll see what a unique experience we have.

Interview with Entrepreness Kim Foren of Geranium Lake Flowers

May 7, 2010 by Katelin | Comments (0)


As Etta James’ At Last, serenades visitors of the Geranium Lake website, we can’t help but notice how well the song represents the sentiments of so many of Kim Foren’s clients. Trapped in the undertaking of planning their own events before finally finding Geranium Lake, the words “my lonely days are over, and life is like a song” never seemed so fitting. Persons planning parties of all kinds flock to the capable hands of Kim, finding the unique artistic vision that has made her floral boutique famous. Kim’s floral and event styling techniques are constantly evolving, maintaining a fresh edge, and chic sensibility. Drawing inspiration from all corners of the globe, Kim provides the ever-important details that make both big and small events memorable for a lifetime.

Kim, you’ve done everything from painting professionally, to working in the corporate world. Tell us a little about your path to opening Geranium Lake Flowers.
I am a painter, and I went to the Pacific Northwest College of Arts. One day I decided to quit my job (which was a corporate buyer for a chain of frame shops). I sold my BMW, bought a van for $600 and started selling flowers out of it. My mom had gone to flower school so I grabbed her notebooks and looked at them, and decided I didn’t need them. I wanted to make my flower shop a little more artistic. I named the shop Geranium Lake Flowers because Geranium Lake is a hot pink Winsor & Newton color of paint, and that was a reminder to keep my flower shop creative. And from there I ended up in the U.S. Bank Tower where I had a little flower stand, and I’ve been here ever since. I’ve been really super lucky. I have a lot of high profile clients, everybody is looking for something a little more fresh and a little bit more interesting and creative. My job before as a corporate art buyer was for an antique importer. I got to go to Holland and England a lot, and I kept seeing all of these flowers in all of the European homes, especially in Holland. So I kind of styled my flower shop after those gorgeous inexpensive flowers that were everywhere. From there my specialty has become weddings and events. I just like he drama of it all. I love people and I love the whole wedding and bride thing.

What role do you play in planning events?
The development over the last five years is that people are busy and they want everything in one place. They want someone who can pull all the pieces together. So you can call it a creative director, or stylist, or a ‘table scaper’…there’s all these crazy names. But basically I just tell people that I’m the girl that makes everything look good. Sometimes I’ll help with the actual flow of the event. Mostly I help with all the pieces. Making sure the color palette and choices are right for the feeling you’re going for. Whether you want a plated dinner, or cocktail party, etc…just kind of managing the general look and feel because there’s so many little decisions that if you didn’t have any experience, you would never know they can influence so much. A lot of customers want this casual, kind of fun, but a little elegant feel. So we do place cards, linens, and lighting, and table numbers, and sometimes we help with music and bridesmaids dresses. You name it. The only thing I really don’t do is the food. But I’ll do the cake. They want a general contractor with a twist, and that’s me.

What is your favorite type of event to coordinate?
I like anything with a lot of content. Where there’s a message, and you can feel really connected to what you’re experiencing. That can be small weddings or big weddings, I also do all of charity events. One big event is the Classic Wine Auction, it’s a huge party for 800 people. I like that because the scale is so dramatic, but the message is so meaningful and intimate. Taking care of special risk kids, or homeless kids, kids with cancer. I just love that one. It’s also at the Convention Center which is this generic, vanilla shell, so it’s always challenging from my point of view to create that intimacy on a large scale.

You’ve been dubbed the ‘Martha Stewart with an Edge’. Do you think you fit the bill?
That was said a long time ago by an Oregonian columnist. Yea, I think you could say that. I don’t have a big ego, I’m super hyper creative, and I’ll just take care of you. So I guess if you describe it like that then, then sure. I would say I have kind of a lifestyle look and feel, and I’m interested in the whole process and the whole event, and it would be cool to have my own TV show, and books, and that would be the direction I want to go eventually. I’m more like a nice Martha Stewart. Some of her projects are very overwhelming and over the top, so I think I make it more accessible.

Your blog is chocked full of great do-it-yourself ideas, how do you come up with them? Is it all about experimentation?
Yea, I’m always looking at things, other blogs, reading different books. If you just look at the world with your eyes open, you find inspiration. I’m just always working I guess you could say, and trying to get inspiration. I just got back from San Francisco the day before last, and at the flower market there was this ‘mountain man’ and he had a giant log that was filled with lichen and it looked like something he had just gotten out of the back of his pickup. He said that I was the only person that had looked at it all day long, and I HAD to have it because I had this vision of laying it on the table and filling it with succulents and ferns and having some kind of forest fairy dinner. So I guess I’m just always looking and trying to figure out what’s inspiring. If you live your life like that, then you see possibilities in everything.

Do you have a favorite flower to work with?
Personally, I’m a fan of old fashioned flowers, lilies of the valley, lilacs, peonies, those kinds of things. I always say that they have a lot of ‘flower baggage’. Most people have that flower that touches a nerve, because they have some emotional baggage with it. I guess I’m just inspired by everything really, so I don’t really have a favorite because I can make something out of nothing, or something out of something. Carnations are definitely not my favorite. But there all of these old fashioned versions that smell like cinnamon and cloves and when you get a hundred of them and pack them tight in a cube or a bowl, they’re magical.

Whenever I get flowers, they seem to wilt quickly. What’s the best way to care for flowers or dry bouquets?
To make them last, always make sure the water is clear. That means that sometimes you would change the water every other day. There are also lots of things that you can put in the water to make them last longer, and if they last longer then they dry better. Some people put pennies in water for tulips, or SevenUp, or things that have acid in them, or you can use flower food. My favorite is Viagra. There are all of these studies about how Viagra-like substances are being used for third world farming. It opens up the pores and lets the water absorb more efficiently. One of my brides was in pharmaceutical sales, and she stared telling me about it. So I started doing research, and I tried it first in Christmas trees at the Benson and it worked beautifully. But it’s kind of expensive for a flower shop to buy Viagra…

As far as drying flowers, you can turn them upside down in a cool, dry place like a basement. You just want to make sure it doesn’t mildew, and turning it upside down will give it a nice shape. If you’re super crafty, go to Michaels and buy silica (that’s the stuff that’s in your tennis shoes to dry them out). Lay your flowers in a low sealed container, layering flowers and silica, flowers and silica, and then cover the whole thing. They’ll dry out perfectly and hold their color, depending on the flower within a week to ten days. The best flower for dying is a hydrangea, it looks amazing, holds its color, doesn’t shed, and the scale of it is so beautiful and big.

There’s lot of cool things you can make that aren’t flowers, beaded flowers, flowers out of old antique ribbon are cool. I really want to go to Thailand. That’s my current thing. They make these elaborate leis, offerings to Buddha. They’re these round, kind of textured, cool, floral garlands made by dissecting and wiring different parts of the flowers together.

You’re widely known for putting a fresh edge on floral arrangements, do you consider your international experiences your secret weapons to success?
Yes, there are big communities of florists all over the world, and about three years ago, I was feeling kind of uninspired by the American floral community, so I joined this international group called Pandora’s Box. They’re visual artists, florists, and most are Spanish, French, and Italian. I met them all in Sardinia, Italy, where they hired flower gurus, met for a week in a hotel, and made all kinds of stuff. That was completely inspiring because most of the florists there are small and they don’t have much work. They’re kind of like studio artists and their medium is flowers. They really made me look outside the box and realize how much business we have here and how much I have personally, and be thankful for that. And maybe take advantage of it while I have this big audience, because their shops and studios are tiny, and they might make one arrangement per day and that’s it. They look at floral material as a necessity, like you have to have food, your phone, and flowers. So it’s serious business, but you also have to have the artistic side of it. This year, they’ve hired a visual artist, who’s a sculptor, kind of like Andy Goldsworthy. He’s British, and he goes into the wild and makes art out of natural material, that will decompose in something like twelve hours. Anyways, this year we’re meeting in the outskirts of Poland and doing kind of land/flowers/art. Going out to the woods and making crazy sculptures! Doing things like that really gets me outside of the box.

Geranium Lake is a member of the Style Me Pretty Little Black Book, what’s that all about?
It’s a resource for florists and all kinds of vendors in each community. They have a resource guide for fun, hipster, more evolved florists and vendors in each city. We submit photos, and participate in their blog a lot. Those guys really have it going on. They’re probably one of the most well trafficked blogs on weddings besides The Knot. So it’s just a really fancy resource guide that’s beautiful and gorgeous. They have a really good style about them, and everything they do is pretty interesting. It really sucks you in.

Say I’m throwing a springtime bash and want to throw together a quick table arrangement. What do you suggest?
It depends on what you like, I always like fruit. One cool thing is just to get an orange and put it on top of a small cube vase, or highball glass filled halfway with water. Make an ‘x’ on the top with a knife and take a stem of whatever it is (a rose, a tulip, a Gerber Daisy) and shove it all the way through until it hits the water. That’s super cute, modern, it’s clever, won’t block the view, and people will talk about it. You could also tie vintage fabric or a ribbon around the vase, and make a runner for the table. For place cards, you can use Cumquats. We cut off the end so it sits flat, and make another cut in the top and slide a little card in there with guests names, and then put it on a napkin. I’m really about the details, because they all add up.
Another cool thing that’s super Springy is using wheat grass. You can cut it into shapes and put it into containers. So you can do the same thing as with the orange: cut out a round of wheatgrass and put it in your highball glass, shoving your floral material in there and make it look like its sprouting. Or sometimes we just lay down the flats of wheatgrass, and put food on it, like bread and olive oil, etc… It’s kind of challenging to think outside the box, like why do you have to use a bowl? Why not a Napa cabbage? There’s lots of other things you can do besides making a flower arrangement that make it interesting.

What is your favorite part of owning your own business?
I guess it’s the control, you can do whatever you want. That can be a downside too. You definitely have to have a structure when you have a retail store and you have customers. I like the creativity, and that anything is possible. My husband has a government job, and we compare and contrast the differences all the time. He definitely has stability, but I like the unknown, and I like that everyday is different.

What is the biggest challenge?
The economy and employees. I’ve had anywhere and from 4-12 employees at a time, depending on how busy I am. When you’re super creative it doesn’t mean you’re necessarily good at business. Learning how to set up systems and structure is not my strong point but you really have to be organized when you run a business, it doesn’t matter what kind. For those creative types like myself, I think struggle to maintain creativity and develop systems and structures to make it all work. Though the economy has been awesome in a way because it’s made me work harder and make better decisions. I am also lucky, because I’m on my seventeenth year, so I have a lot of stability. I still lost so many of my customers and my sales in 2009 were down, but my profits were up. It was kind of a shock. So I made better decisions. Everything had to make money. And I was also more generous as I’ve ever been with my donations in 2009. So I found a good rhythm, and I think if the recession hadn’t been here I wouldn’t have had the ability to make more money and give more money.

Photo Credits: Jasmine Photography, Rebekah Johnson and Kevin Meyers

A Must Read: Spring Trend Must-Haves!

April 21, 2010 by Katelin | Comments (0)


Do you look forward to new seasons, but dread the accompanying closet overhaul? Whether you’re performing a minor operation or open-heart surgery on your closet this Spring, we understand that maintaining a balance between your pre-owned pieces and new temptations can be quite a challenge! So this week we’re sharing the top trends we’ve been obsessing over, in order to help you figure out what to toss, buy, and reuse this season. Whether you incorporate one or all of these trends, we’re sure your new Spring look will be a smashing success!

Neutrals

As one of the biggest color stories for spring, shades of khaki, camel, blush, and beige have dominated the runways. From blazers to light layered looks, this color palette is romantic and feminine, but can also add a dramatic edge your duds when paired with bright colors. Soft neutrals can be incorporated everywhere from entire ensembles to simple accessories like a classic nude pump or belts and baubles. However, if nude isn’t quite your color, why not reinterpret the trend using shades of gray? This trend it all about mixing, matching, layering, and experimenting, so have fun with it! Find great grays and cool khaki at Parallel Boutique on 1022A NW Johnson St. and online.

The Multi-print Dress

We love the look of floral print sundress paired with anything from boots and cardigans, to strappy sandals and statement accessories. So naturally, we can’t get enough of these dresses that incorporate multiple prints without the hassle of picking them out yourself! These great floral frocks keep the feeling of traditional springtime sundresses with the editorial edge of contrasting prints, making this a chic option that feels effortless. Find a great selection of mixed print dresses at Frances May on 1013 SW Washington St. or Una on 2802 SE Ankeny.

The Military + Tribal Prints

The mix of military and tribal in this season’s utilitarian trend feels like it’s been a long time coming, yet we couldn’t be more surprised at what a perfect pair they make. We love the look of shrunken military jackets paired with the classic slim safari cargos, and oversized military work shirts with skinny jeans and jewelry. Interpret this trend any way that feels right, by adding feminine pieces like ankle boots or hammered metal accessories. Track down this trend at Moulé on 1225 NW Everett St. and online.

Tie-Dye

Borrowing this trend from yesteryear, Spring 2010’s designers have applied the tie-dye technique to the creation of all kinds of clothes that are simply to-dye-for. Taking the practice of pigment application to a whole new level, this season tie-dye can be found on everything from evening dresses to separates in newly innovative patterns and color schemes. Incorporating a concentrated blast of tie-dye livens up many an ensemble, but be mindful of the power of these pieces! Pairing them with solids like denim shorts or black leggings makes for balanced, but still show-stopping outfits. Also, tie-dye is the perfect candidate for a DIY project. Watch this video of the designers of Proenza Schouler tie-dying with Martha Stewart for some inspiration!

Denim

As Yves Saint Laurent once said, “I wish I had invented jeans. They have expression, modesty, sex appeal, [and] simplicity”. What a profound statement for the sticking power of denim. Clearly, this is one fabric that will never be out of style, but from season to season the application of this timeless textile morphs within the mold of seasonal trends. This Spring, it’s all about denim on denim. Everything from dresses, to satchels, to blazers is being cut from this classic fabric and styled all together. We’re suckers for a tailored denim work shirt and jeans, or all denim dresses, and Chambray fitted jackets over colorful full-skirted frocks. Get your fill of this fabric at Lizard Lounge on 1323 NW Irving Street.

Statement Jewelry

While many of us are putting eccentricity aside this season to accommodate for modest budgets, bold statement jewelry remains a static staple of this season. As elaborate cuffs eclipse last season’s bangles, and Lucite jewelry make waves in the accessories sector, statement jewelry is THE place to sneak in a little spurge. Big bold pieces like stacked bracelets, bib necklaces, and layered strands add eccentric elements, and can be worn with so many different outfits that the season’s worth of utility is well worth the investment. We can’t help but love chunky Lucite pieces the most, as they bring to mind familiar images of costume jewelry and jelly sandals, with a grown-up air in this reincarnation of the transparent thermoplastic. Find fantastic statement jewelry on Grayling’s new online shop here!

Mini Cross-Body Bags

While we’re crying at the thought of putting our carryall super bags to rest, this season is calling for a different type of handbag entirely. Mini cross-body bags are the ultimate style accessory for ladies on the go, as they provide a convenient compliment to any outfit without overwhelming with large straps and copious prints and fabric. We’re loving this season’s cross-bodies with embellished straps, perforated leather, and twist lock fasters at the front. These bags are the perfect mix between hands-free functionality and sleek chic. Visit Ellington Handbags on 1533 NW 24th and online for a great selection of classic pieces.

Modern Clogs

If you’re scratching your head wondering if we’re serious, rest assured, we had the same reaction. But upon seeing this updated version of the once frumpy fashion faux pas, we have to admit, we kind of like them. Studded, peep-toe, leather, and sky high, these shoes are here to stay for the season and look surprisingly great paired with dresses and even skinny jeans. Find a great selection of clogs at pop-up shop Solestruck on 718 NW 11th Ave., and online!

There you have it, our quick list of Spring-must haves! What’s on your list?

Portland Events For Living La Vida Loca

April 14, 2010 by Katelin | Comments (0)



Weekly meetings, hourly coffee, Blackberry checks by the minute … you ladies make playing Super Woman look effortless, and as fellow females-on-the-go, we understand how unavoidable getting addicted to a good routine is. They keep us on track and our sanity intact, nothing wrong with that! However, on the flipside of these rock star routines is a world of spontaneity, which is just as essential to staying sane. So this week we are sharing some of Portland’s upcoming events to help you start living la vida loca (even if only for the weekend). Let these unusual additions to your days release you from your routine and bring you a well deserved departure from the daily grind!

Red Dress Party
As the annual charitable Red Dress Party celebrates its 10th year anniversary, 2010’s “RedRum” themed event has become a much-anticipated evening. Inspired by The Shinning, the Bison Building will be transformed into a scene from this epic horror film set in the Timberline Lodge, complete with an outdoor hedge maze. While this event may sound slightly spooky, there is plenty of fun to be had amidst the thriller of a theme. DJ Tronic, Tahoe Jackson, and DJ Harmonix will play mixes on two dance floors, and food, beverages, and special red cocktails will be provided for all red-dressed guests to enjoy. Tickets can be purchased here and are $50 each for general admission, and $125 for VIP accommodations.

Cirque du Soleil KOOZA
Much like the unassuming wanderer in the opening act of this spectacular show, guests of KOOZA are immediately thrust into the vibrant world of impossible human strength, and agility, watching as the arts of acrobatics and clowning are displayed just a few arm-lengths away. KOOZA astounds and charms all at once; and in a generation of entertainment largely predicated on computer graphics and digital animation, this spectacular show is truly a testament to the natural human wonders that still remain and entertain. Watching the genuine excitement and thrill on the faces of the performers is a sweet addition the elaborately organized show that displays the ability of the actors to embody their given characters as they invite you to venture inside their fictional kingdom that beckons with a zany allure.

Filmed By Bike Film Festival
This is an event for bike and film enthusiasts alike, as devotees of both pastimes come together to celebrate at this annual weekend-long independent film festival. Throughout the year, bike-themed film submissions are made from all over the world, and are eventually narrowed down to an elite selection of the top thirty films. The festival kicks off with the raucous New Belgium Street Party on Friday night, as the road is closed down and filled to the brim with DJ’s, beer, over $4000 in raffle prizes (presented by Sock Dreams), and bike lovers reveling in the culture of their most beloved activity. The event is cash only and guaranteed to be a blast whether or not you get around on two wheels or four! Tickets for the shows are available here.

Interview with Entrepreness Tez Hartney of Parallel Boutique

April 9, 2010 by Katelin | Comments (3)


As the owner of Parallel Boutique, Tez Hartney shares her keen eye for style in a fresh space filled with thoughtfully chosen pieces, representative of the shop’s original premise. Inspired by the idea of enhancing the existing wardrobes of shoppers and providing great clothes to both men and women, Tez has supplied her clients with chic, contemporary classics for nearly two years. She is exceptionally good at making shoppers feel comfortable, inspired, and adventurous, and her enthusiasm for the clothes she carries is dangerously contagious. Fall prey to Parallel’s undeniable charm and you’ll find your style elevated to heights you never imagined! Parallel is located by Jamison Square at 1022A NW Johnson St.

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What is your background in retail and fashion?
My very first retail job was at the Gap, later the Limited, and Kay Jewelers. Then I relocated to Hawaii and worked in restaurants, and eventually went on to manage my mom’s restaurant there. After I got tired of restaurants, I moved into high-end retail. I worked at Gianni Versace, and Tiffany and Co. on the sales floor and in merchandising. That taught me about inventory, shipping and receiving, and ordering, and it’s amazing that everything I learned in the past, totally applies to what I do now. Managing, cost control, profit margins, just accounting and bookkeeping knowledge are definitely things that are so important to know.

What led you to open your own shop? Was this always a dream of yours?
Opening a restaurant was probably more of a dream. It’s what my family does, it’s what my husband does, and it’s what I know. But when I had my daughter, I didn’t want to work 14 hours a day. I hated the way my mother was never home, so I wanted to at least be home in the evening to tuck my daughter in, so that’s what led me to do what I do. Working retail in Portland is much less lucrative than other places I’ve worked, like Hawaii and Las Vegas, because of the volume that they do there, the commission is insane. Here the volume is lower, the consumer market is different. I thought, instead of working for someone else, why not open up my own place and make more? I felt confident enough to go out on my own, and I wanted to do something where I didn’t have to manage a huge staff, that was probably the hardest part of running the restaurant.

What inspired the name “Parallel”?
Because we wanted to carry men’s and women’s clothing, that inspired the ‘side by side theme’. And the original store was a two story, open space, all parallel lines, so the name made a little more sense, architecturally, in the other space. But also, I wanted a store where I could compliment everyone’s pieces from their existing wardrobes, but I didn’t think ‘compliment’ was a very good name, so Parallel turned out to be a better fit.

The style of the shop and clothes you carry are very contemporary and chic. What or who are some of your stylistic influences?
I think every second of the day. The other day I saw a girl feeding the meter, and she just looked like a million bucks. I loved the way she draped her scarf and her tousled hair. Especially when I go to other cities, I love to see how people dress. San Francisco amazes me, how everyone looks so put together. It wasn’t like that when I lived there! In L.A everyone is so manicured, with perfect hair, suntans, and white teeth. And New York is really interesting because they want to look like they don’t care about fashion, but then it’s like ‘oh Manolos!’ with slouchy cardigans and pocket tee’s. I’m influence by everything. But I have to say I’m mostly influenced by people who have a unique style and their own identities.

What is your method for choosing the items you carry?
It’s a huge process, and you hear boutique owners say this all the time, edit, edit, edit. Since we don’t usually buy one of everything, we put a lot of thought into who it’s for, and how well it will do, and what color is best … We’re not a department store, people come to us because they don’t want to go through racks and racks of clothes, so we need to focus down. For me, I barely place an order at market. I take pictures and notes of what I like and bring it all back home and narrow it down. Everything gets laid out on my dinning room table, and it’s just mass chaos for a week. It’s hard because I have to order six months out, and a lot of what I carry only comes out twice a year. But that also makes it special and more collection based. Also laying it out allows me to figure out how to complete looks from head to toe. Some women will love a piece but say ‘I don’t know how to wear it”. You know, you have these great MC hammer pants, but how do you wear them? Completing the picture for shoppers is really important to helping them get out of their comfort zones.

What’s your favorite brand to wear?
Probably Paul and Joe Sister. I love all of the lines I carry for different reasons. I love Prairie Underground and Bobi for my days off. If I want to feel sophisticated and put together then I’ll go for Rag and Bone. I don’t know if I’m obsessed with a certain line, versus easy pieces that I can throw on and look great. I think my clients are that way too, anything that requires too much fuss, you just don’t want to deal with.

How intense is the temptation to order one of everything for yourself?
Very tempting, but after the first year, I was like ‘oh no! I have so much stuff.’ I cleaned out my closet and had nine bags full of clothes from years and years of collecting.

Do you find buying menswear more challenging?
I do, but I try to get a lot of feedback from my guy friends and try to talk to every guy that comes in, and see what they like, and what they don’t. I think it was challenging the first season, but it’s definitely nice to see that what I’m picking is moving. For men’s it’s definitely a much smaller niche. I would like to grow my menswear section, but until demand grows, it’s hard to dedicate the space and resources. Though I am bringing men’s clothes in more consistently, instead of just spring and fall, so there’s a freshness to the men’s section. I also get a lot of women shopping for themselves in the men’s department. Sometimes they like the prints of the men’s shirts or collared sweaters. I like those kind of women that don’t really care if it’s men’s or women’s, and just own the piece and kind of rock it somehow.

What is the biggest perk to owning your own store?
Being able to control and change things when you want and how you want, and being able to have a vision of what you want and seeing that end product. For instance, my online shop. It was so neat to work with a designer and make that happen, still in the aesthetic of my store. It’s like a second location.

How does your online store differ from your shop?
Everything I have in the store, I put online–jewelry, scarves, everything. I just started it in January, so you’ll start to see a lot more on there in the future. There’s certain things that I know will work better online than in the store. But there’s still no guarantee that it will sell online versus not. I recently splurged on a hooded, khaki/olive-colored, Rag and Bone jacket. It’s a stunning piece, and I know Rag and Bone is probably going to get some press on it, so I knew that if it didn’t sell in the store, it would probably sell online. This is because major department stores order larger quantities, but when they sell out people go online and that’s where I pop up. It’s kind of fun to see where all of the orders come from. Seattle, Vancouver B.C, San Diego …

Do you have plans for expansion?
Originally I thought I wanted to, but I think I’ll direct my energy to the online store for now. It has the potential of a second store, without the overhead. If anything I’d rather expand my space than open two separate locations.

Last thoughts to leave our readers with?
Have fun shopping and have fun with your clothes! I don’t try to give people a whole new wardrobe, I want them to be able to incorporate things into their wardrobe slowly. Finding your identity and your own look doesn’t happen in one shopping trip. I love when women come in and just buy one or two things, and slowly build their wardrobes instead of buying everything at once and never seeing them again.

Best of Portland: Coffee and Tea Blogs

April 7, 2010 by Katelin | Comments (0)



We love sharing the latest insider information with you here at CRAVE Portland, but we don’t mind admitting when someone’s got us beat. We’re deferring to the experts in this post by introducing the gurus of coffee and tea through the following three blogs. These masters of brewed beverages provide information on Portland’s most current caffeinated occurrences, keeping you up to date on all things loose leaf, fair trade, decaf, and whole bean.

Bellissimo
As the President of Bellissimo Coffee InfoGroup and founder of the American Barista & Coffee School, Bruce Milletto has long been recognized as the voice of the specialized coffee industry. Earlier this year, Milletto transitioned from his long-time coffee blog espresso101, to the Bellissimo blog, continuing to dispense valuable insider information on all of his encounters with specialty coffees. As an international coffee consultant, Milletto shares the details of his professional endeavors in New York, Morocco, and of course Portland! Look for information about local barista trainings, new brews and beans, and shop openings on the Belissimo blog.

Portland Roasting Coffee
After twelve years of roasting premium coffee beans, Portland Roasting Coffee has gained plenty of experience exploring a vast array of beans from around the world. Through its blog, now three years old, PRC shares knowledge and enthusiasm with readers, posting information on events, new brews, and other info pertinent to the consumption of coffee (see post on how the number of FP’s on one’s tongue affects perception of taste!). Posts are written by twelve different bloggers, from various positions within the company including Coffee Graders, Operations Executives, and Columbian Correspondents, ensuring a balanced view of the industry. The blog also includes links to PRC’s Coffee Education and Training Videos on all things relevant to coffee creation and consumption, including ‘Latte Basics’, ‘Handling and Pruning Coffee Trees’, ‘Espresso Machine Maintenance and Cleaning,’ ‘Espresso Tamping,’ and many more. Portland Roasting Coffee’s blog is a great resource for those seeking a deeper understanding of this internationally involved industry. Best of all PRC’s blog includes great information about coffee happenings right here in Portland, check out their recent post on the Walk For Water event!

Tea Time in Portland
Though this blog hasn’t been updated recently, the archives are well worth perusing. The self proclaimed ‘tech geek with a tea obsession’ who pens these posts shares colorful reviews of new tea varieties and tools, using jargon that clearly communicates this blogger’s passion and expertise on the subject. The reviews detailed here are always engaging, and never fail to make readers crave a pot-full of hot tea in a daring new flavor. Get the scoop on steeped specialties through Tea Time’s many mouthwatering entries.

Best of Portland: Best Wedding & Event Planner Blogs

March 31, 2010 by Katelin | Comments (5)


Whether it’s cotton-tailed cupcakes at an annual Easter brunch, or homemade wine charms at your girlfriend’s dinner party; at some point we’ve all found ourselves envious of the creativity of others. But who has the energy to compete for originality points when time is precious and inspiration is elusive? Now you do! We’ve rounded up the best of Portland’s wedding and event planning blogs to help you put together your most sensational soirées. Below are the modern day cheat sheets to the most current information on themes, vendors, music, food, favors, and more! With the help of these experts, you’re sure to throw one unforgettable fete!

Little Black Book Vendor Blog
As part of Style Me Pretty, a style-centric wedding resource for modern brides, the Little Black Book Vendor Blog provides a perfect source of inspiration for brides-to-be. The weddings featured here are charming and unique, sharing the experiences of the brides and grooms (from the proposal to the wedding cake) in their own words. This space allows the newlyweds to share the details of their days and the resources they used to arrive at their finalized themes, menus, locations, etc. The photos included are beautifully shot and make viewers feel as if they are joining in on the intimate moments shared between couples, families, and friends. The details captured of centerpieces, gowns, and table dressings provide great insight and easy access to vendor information for those hoping to put on similar events. Vendors involved in each wedding are named in the post, and those that are members of Style Me Pretty’s ‘little black book’ (a thoroughly edited list of SMP approved vendors) are given special mention, ensuring reputable recommendations to readers.

Geranium Lake Flowers
Primarily comprised of posts by owner Kim Foren, the Geranium Lake Flowers Blog is reflective of the creative spirit this multi-talented owner. Originally trained as a fine art painter, Kim transitioned into the flower and events business sixteen years ago, bringing along her enthusiasm for innovation and creativity. After achieving incredible success with high profile clients and accolades from nearly every Portland publication, Kim decided to share her talent with a wider audience through her blog. Readers can find tons of great information here, pertaining to all kinds of lifestyle and events topics. Posts include information about upcoming trends (i.e broach bouquets, and chandeliers), as well as venue recommendations (reception sites, spas for rest and relaxation, etc…), photographers to note, and amazingly inventive DIY projects like onion peel egg dying, and plush pumpkin place card holders. The posts are fun to read and easy to follow with beautiful photography and detailed instructions.

Swanky Tables
Annette Warnick is one of our favorite women to work with here at CRAVE Portland. We love her commitment to furnishing stylish events and her unique creative visions (can you say Holiday Cravings Party 2009?), and she shares her fantastic talent with readers through her blog for Swanky Tables. Here, Annette shares photos from recent events, inspiration gained everywhere from shower curtains to patio furniture, and recipes for do-it-yourself drinks and dishes. Annette is truly an innovator and shares so much of her creative genius through her blog. Not only are special events, but also everyday life, enriched through the insight shared here by Annette. Check out this fun blog for all sorts of event inspirations!

HI-FI Weddings
Music plays a huge role in weddings, from walking down the aisle to rocking out at the reception, but arranging the perfect playlist is no easy task. This is where the HI-FI Weddings Blog comes to the rescue. Built upon the submissions of those who have already tied the knot, HI-FI’s blog is comprised of love stories and playlists submitted by countless couples. Brides and grooms-to-be may find this blog helpful in seeking out perfect playlists from couples with similar tastes in tunes, and can even listen to many of the recommended songs through the blog. Playlists are accompanied by pictures and descriptions from the couples, making this the perfect solution to the usual menace of mix-making.

Best of Portland: Pet-Friendly Places

March 24, 2010 by Katelin | Comments (3)


As pets have transformed from our companions to second children, it’s become increasingly common to bring them along on our daily adventures. But even in a town rated amongst the most pet-friendly cities in the country, finding venues accepting of both you and your pooch can be a challenge. This week we’ve compiled a list of the best spots to take your canine companion on a coffee run, meal out, shopping trip, or after-hours outing.

Amnesia Brewing—The definition of a laidback atmosphere, Amnesia Brewing caters to a younger crowd serving inexpensive beer and bratwurst on the back patio. The large covered patio serves as a great spot to sit and enjoy the company of fellow diners and their dogs. Under each picnic table is a water bowl, and the owners occasionally serve lucky dogs overdone sausages. Find Amnesia Brewing at 823 N. Beech St.

Tin Shed—Located on NE Alberta St., the Tin Shed is the recipient of endless rave reviews for its cozy, eclectic atmosphere. Home to summertime concerts, movie screenings, and an outdoor patio complete with fireplace, the Tin Shed is a very popular destination in NE Portland. Items like the Sweet Potato French Toast, Goat Boy (raspberry marinated portabella mushrooms, sun-dried tomato & spinach, topped with goat cheese), and famous biscuits, keep carnivores, vegetarians, and vegans coming in droves. The wait is often long, but the endless self-serve coffee makes it much more manageable. What’s more, this place takes pet-friendly to a whole new level, with a special section of the menu dedicated to the tastes of accompanying canines. Dogs are welcome on the patio where they are served fresh water and menu items ordered by owners. Pack up your pooch and head to 1438 NE Alberta Street!

Portland Farmer’s Market—Though dogs aren’t technically allowed at the PSU Farmer’s Market, this doesn’t seem to stop dog-toting foodie enthusiasts. The Farmers Market is a great place to try all kinds of samples and get hooked on items you never knew you could crave (i.e strawberry jalapeño jelly….). Dogs love the outdoor atmosphere, and on sunny summer days this is the best place to peruse while chowing down on Salvador Molly’s Tamales, or Pine State’s irresistible biscuit sandwiches. Why not put a paw to the lawn on a sunny Saturday? The Farmer’s Market is open 8:30am-2pm.

Yappy Hour—Voted Portland Monthly’s ‘Best Place To Hang Out With Your Pet’, a visit to this monthly event is a must for those of you with dogs as social as you are. Each last Wednesday of the month, LexiDog Boutique & Social Club and Oregon Humane Society put on this fun event at the trendy Jupiter Hotel. The renovated motor inn, turned boutique hotel hosts the hip event, featuring fun activities, local wines, food, pet-related artists, and pets available for adoption. Each month has a different theme, and a portion of the proceeds benefit animals at OHS. This month’s event is entitled “Spring Training” featuring dog behavior specialists, wine from CHEHALEM, food by Catering by Bo (Thai Sampler Platter), and artist Brad Kaufam. April’s Yappy Hour theme is “Paws & Paint”, featuring the opportunity to paint your own dog bowl with Ready Paint Fire! This is a great event, for a great cause! Guests and their pets are also welcome to stay at the Jupiter in a pet-friendly room with all the amenities your dog could desire. Proceeds from each guestroom also benefit OHS.

Sellwood Riverfront Park—This 8.75 acre area of unfenced territory is an ideal place to let your dog run wild. One of the 32 off-leash areas in Portland, Sellwood Riverfront Park offers plenty of space to let dogs enjoy the outdoors, and convenient spot to cool off after a long day of play. Dogs love taking a quick dip in the nearby Willamette River, and owners can retire to picnic tables while their pets enjoy the water. Sellwood Riverfront Park is located on SE Spokane Street and Oaks Parkway, open 5am-midnight.

Che’ Café—Named after owners Terri and Ryan’s dog, Che’ Café may be one of Portland’s most pet-friendly food carts. The concept behind this cart’s cuisine is handmade comfort food you don’t have to cook yourself. Orders can even be submitted online (for free delivery if you mention that you saw the order form on the website), or pick-up. For those customers bringing dogs along during Portland’s rainy season, pooches are welcome inside the indoor seating area. Che’ Café also makes dog treats out of dehydrated chicken, so you can be sure your dogs will be happy they tagged along. Find Che’ Café at 3954 N Williams Avenue.

Best of Portland: Happy Hours with the Gal Pals

March 3, 2010 by Katelin | Comments (3)


As a capital of creative cuisine, Portland offers an abundant supply of dining destinations. The only downside to living in this mecca of fantastic fare is the toll it can take on one’s wallet, so we are delivering the perfect anecdote to this mouthwatering dilemma: happy hours! Great places to get small plates, cheap drinks, and enjoy new atmospheres with friends, happy hours are perfect for frugal foodies. Here are some of our favorite places around town.

Casa Del Matador
Everyday 4-6pm & 10-1am
Extremely dedicated to providing a true tex-mex experience, the industry veterans behind Casa Del Matador have created an impressive restaurant reflective of their inspiration everywhere from the décor to the food. The interior is artfully decorated with unique woodworking, antique light fixtures, custom ironwork, and an open fireplace set atop one of the tables. Prices range from four to five dollars for food, and the flavors are unforgettable. The famous Texas Sized Nachos are piled high with melted cheese, chopped onions, black beans, pico de gallo, and somehow manage to stay crisp all the way through. Other happy hour menu items include the very flavorful Spicy Fried Calamari, Tex-Mex Spring Rolls (served with a sweet chili sesame plum sauce—YUM!), Chorizo Quesadillas, and many more. Although a drink purchase is not required, the tequila bar is stocked with over 95 varieties, and the margaritas are poured very generously (get the best for your buck!). Find Casa Del Matador at 1438 NW 23rd Ave., and 2424 E. Burnside St.

Mint/820
Mon- Tues 4-8pm, ALL NIGHT Wed, & 4-6:30 Thurs-Sun
This Pan-American Bistro takes influences from the Pacific North West, the Mediterranean, and Latin America offering a happy hour menu with varied options. Tucked away, this slim little restaurant is cozy and low lit for a swankier happy hour atmosphere. Happy hour menu items include Sweet Potato Fries ($3.50), Fried Stuffed Risotto Balls ($6), Cuban Lamb Burger ($8), Spicy Caesar Salad ($6), soup ($4), and daily specials. The drink menu is also one of Mint’s best assets; the Avocado Daiquiri, Pineapple Drop, Bella (Blackberry puree, vodka, and lemon lime), and Ruby (beet infused vodka with a splash of lemon lime juice) are all great options, and Mint offers many, many more. Even better, drinks are just $6 during happy hour. Find Mint/820 at 816 N. Russell St.

Bernie’s Southern Bistro
Tues-Sun 4-6pm
The phrase southern comfort sure does apply here. Bernie’s Southern Bistro offers the best in southern comfort food at excellent prices. During Bernie’s happy hour each dish is just $3! Menu items include the Po’ Boy Sandwich (your choice of chicken or fried green tomatoes), Creole Meatloaf Sandwich, Cornmeal Fried Okra, Mac n’ Cheese (creamy, cheesy, and SO delicious), Hush Puppies with an amazing jalapeno marmalade, Fried Dill Pickles, Bananas Foster Bread Pudding, and more. Also, the Southern Bell (gin, fresh lime, rashberry liqueur, and soda) is perfectly refreshing and just five dollars along with four other drink specials. House Chardonnay and Cabernet are also just $4 during happy hour. Bernie’s Southern Bistro is one of the best deals in town; find it at 2904 NE Alberta St.

Ciao Vito
Everyday at 4pm
Also located on NE Alberta at 2203, Ciao Vito offers a very different kind of happy hour. Here, under candlelight and crystal chandeliers, guests are invited to try modern takes on classic Italian dishes. A heaping plate of Ken’s Artisan bread, olives, and white bean spread is just $2, while other menu items like Spaghetti Agli’Olio, Fried Crispy Meatballs, Sugo of Pork with Fried Crispy Polenta, Butter Leaf Lettuce Salad with Olive Oil and Cabernet Sauvignon Vinegar, and Fried Potato Fritters in Roasted Red Pepper Sauce, are all between $5-8. Also, the antipasti platter is a great option for trying small bites of everything, with salted meats, cured olives, cheese, frittatas, and more. The staff is very knowledgeable about available wine pairings, and the owner is most often just a table away chatting with diners.

DragonFish
Mon-Sat 4-6pm & 9-close, Sunday 3pm-close
Those of you with sushi habits know how expensive keeping up with crab roll cravings can be. Fortunately, DragonFish’s newly revamped happy hour offers some great dishes at low prices. Half rolls and small plates like Caramel Ginger Chicken, Miso Soup, Hoisin BBQ Ribs, and Salmon Katsu cost between two and five dollars each with a minimum drink purchase. Dragonfish also has a trendy drink list, with items like Guava Mai-Tai’s, Lemongrass Lime Ricky’s, Electric Blowfishes, and Peachy Samurai Martinis for $5. Sake ($3), beer ($3.50), and Wine ($4) are also available during happy hour. Dragonfish is located at 909 SW Park Ave.

Got a favorite we didn’t mention? Comment below to share your favorite places with fellow readers, we know you’ve all got a little frugal foodie in you!

Interview with Entrepreness Tiffanee Bean of Mabel and Zora Boutique

February 26, 2010 by Katelin | Comments (3)



Inspired by the bold style of the seventies, Tiffanee Bean and husband Corey, opened Mabel and Zora four years ago with a distinct style and a talent for stocking the merchandise every woman craves. The styles are bold and bright, the accessories are classy and sassy, and the glamorous selection of dresses makes fahsionistas all over Portland weak in the knees. I caught up with Tiffanee to talk about the journey she and Corey have taken in opening Mabel and Zora, and their plans for the future. This couple couldn’t have been more fun to chat with, and Tiffanee’s passion for the colorful spirit of the shop is apparent in every aspect. I can’t wait to go back!

Tiffanee, you are the owner of an adorable shop, tell us how you started your business.
I’ve worked in retail and merchandise for a very long time. Earlier on, I worked in a store where the owner worked mostly remotely, so I basically got to run the place on my own. That’s where much of the inspiration to start my own shop began. On March 13th we’ll have been in the Pearl for two years! Also, when I was younger my grandmother had this great shop with white carpet and great clothes, and it was one of maybe only two shops in town. It was a gathering spot for women to get together and shop and have fun, and that’s what I wanted to do here. I spoke with her for a long time about opening my store, and it finally became a reality. I didn’t want to sell vintage or recycled clothing, I wanted to stay modern and true to the style of dress today, but maintain the same spirit of her shop. Though white carpet is VERY impractical for a Portland shop, so we’ve got these white marble floors and they’re about as close we can get. Overall, I’m really happy with the styling of the shop. There are a few things every now and then that I would change, but I love it.

You named Mabel and Zora after your cats, and designed it after Doris Day movies. What are some of your other inspirations?
I’m so in love with things from the past. I’ve always been one of those people that people say ‘you were born in the wrong era’. I’m not sure that’s true, but I’m obsessed with different eras. I’ve gone through all kinds of era obsessions, the 40′s, 50′s, 60′s … Right now I’m kind of stuck on my grandmother’s era and happy to be there. Two lines that we carry, Milly and Trina Turk are very retro style and I love them.

What do you like most about owning your own business? And what aspects of the business do you manage?
My husband and I cover all aspects of the business. I handle most all of the buying, financial accounting, etc …  and Corey takes care of the staffing and spends the most time in the store. It’s a big job! What I like most about owning my own business is getting to run things the way I want to. It’s also scary because there is no one to go to but yourself if you don’t know how to do something, or something goes wrong. Being a business owner is really difficult, and definitely requires a certain type of person. I know quite a few people that have spoken to me about starting their own businesses and have found out that the stress is too much. It requires quite all of your attention.

How fun to work with your husband everyday! Was that something that you planned early on?
Corey was actually a chef when we opened Mabel and Zora on Alberta. Initially it was just me running the store, and I think three weeks later (“two weeks later”—Corey shouts from the back!)–Two weeks later, I admitted that I needed to hire someone to help out in the store. Corey said, ‘why not me?’ and we decided to take that leap and have us both work full-time on getting this shop off the ground. It was quite a risk, giving up our substantial source of income, but it paid off and we’ve since been able to hire wonderful employees for both of our shops. We’ve become a family, and stay close even with employees that no longer work for us. That’s a kind of relationship that many people don’t have, and we feel lucky to have achieved that.

When you opened this location in the Pearl District, did you feel that your clientele changed too?
I think if anything, we were able to gain even more customers. Most of our regular customers continued to shop here, and we were shocked to find that so many of our new visitors hadn’t heard of us or even the Alberta District before. Also in opening this location, we gained access to the very large tourist destination that is the Pearl District. During the summer it’s like we’re in a real destination city and it’s fun! Overall, we attract an older customer with great taste, and we’ve been able to just build on that client base in the Pearl.

What is your favorite place to take a break in the Pearl?
We are definitely Hot Lips Pizza people. We go there almost every day, and it is so good! Also the park is right at the end of our block, so we love to walk there in the summer and watch the puppies, and of course get Cool Moon Ice Cream. That stuff is too good! We even get it during the winter, I’m sure people think we’re crazy, walking around in the rain with ice cream.

Since you do all of the buying for Mabel and Zora, what is your favorite season to stock for?
Summer! I love dresses and bright colors. Summer is so much fun, and it’s the perfect season for my favorite clothes.

What are some challenges with buying for your store?
Editing, editing, editing. When we used to go to market, we would look at everything and always over-buy. Now, we try to be more focused, find what we came for, and leave! It helps us to be more consistent with the clothes that we stock. I’ve found that the things that I like sells, and the things I’m not so sure about end up on the sale rack. I’ve had to learn to really trust myself. Though I do have to keep our customers in mind as well. I love kitsch, I swear I’m making our house into the Brady Bunch house, and I love it! If Corey would let me have green shag carpet we would. But I have to remember that not everyone has my exact taste. Also, we’re making a real effort to find clothes that fit all different body types. It’s challenging, but we do our best to find good pieces to accommodate everyone in a flattering way. Another challenge, is being aware of trends. Again, we’re trying really hard to stay true to the specific types of clothes that we’ve built our store’s reputation on and the items that we’re excited about. If there’s an airline stewardess-looking dress in a bright color, we’re definitely getting it. But it can get really hard when you go to market and literally EVERYONE is wearing fringe, or pink. It feels like once a trend becomes popular you can’t get away from it. We want to stay modern and trendy, but maintain our individual style.

Portland’s fashion scene seems largely focused on supporting local designers. Do you feel a responsibility to this movement or does it interfere with your stylistic vision?
It’s true that there are many great designers here in Portland. But they are also represented in a lot of boutiques. We wanted to stay away from being just another local Portland boutique and offer something different and uniquely us. We pay a lot of attention to the practices of the companies we buy from and in some cases have had to stop carrying certain brands over disagreements in practices. In our opinion, it’s important to support brands that we can get behind AND fit with the style of our store and customers. Ultimately that means that we don’t carry a ton of Portland made products, but pay close attention to where and how the items we purchase are made. For example, we carry almost everything that Trina Turk designs and over 70% of it is made in America. We also carry Angela Arnold jewelry, a lot of Betsy & Iya, and many of my sister-in-law’s designs, all Portland made.

What is the most rewarding aspect of your job?
There are several different rewarding aspects. The first is more of a daily reward, and that’s having customers walk away happy. Like yesterday, we had a customer come in fifteen minutes before closing. She had driven from Salem, and had been shopping all day for a dress to wear to a wedding. She had a very slim, tall, athletic build and couldn’t find a thing to fit her. I suggested a sleeveless cowl neck dress, and it looked stunning on her! She was SO excited because all day, no one had helped her or suggested anything like the dress. She left so happy, originally thinking that she would have to go home empty-handed, and we were able to give her something she loved and felt confident in. That felt really good.

But I don’t work in the store all of the time, so I don’t get to be a part of everyone’s shopping successes. For me the most constant reward is the fact that we’ve been in business for almost four years. It feels like such a great accomplishment, that even if the store were to close tomorrow I wouldn’t regret it because of what a great experience it’s been.

What is this season’s must-have item in the shop?
Bright colors! Big sellers for spring have been our items in peacock teal. It seems like everyone has to have something in that shade this season, it has blown off the racks. Also here in Portland, I think long sleeved, bright colored cardigans are a must. In other parts of the country, springtime means sundresses and sandals, but here we have to stay a little more covered up, so bright colored cardigans are great.

What is the most important staple of your own closet?
All of my Trina Turk outfits, she’s probably my favorite designer. She is from Palm Springs, and I just visited her store. It looked almost identical to ours! She loves the same kind of jet set, bold colors, seventies design aesthetic that I do. It was like a brain share between the two of us. So all of the items I have of hers are in a special section of my closet.

Do you have plans for the future of Mabel & Zora?
For the moment, our biggest initiative is introducing our own clothing line. There are sometimes gaps that you wish you fill in your store, but can’t find what you’re looking for. Introducing our own line would help us to supply our customers with everything we want to offer them, and give customers an even better reason to shop here since our line will be sold exclusively at Mabel and Zora! But since I’m still in school, that is awhile down the road. For now we’re happy with where we are, we want to continue to evolve our buying, and enjoy starting our family.

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