archwaygallerymainjpg

RETAIL WRAP | august 2010

July 29, 2010

BRAD BLUME + SEAN RUDOLPH | TENNIS EXPRESS

years in operation | 2010 is our 10th anniversary
11026 Westheimer Rd., Houston TX 77042  | 713.435.4800 | www.tennisexpress.com

How did you get into the business?
We love tennis. It’s a lifetime sport.
What sets you apart from other sports stores?
We know tennis! Tennis Express is a tennis specialty store with a team comprised of unique individuals that love and play the game. Our enthusiasm shows through our team members who are full of confidence and personality. Our associates love to have fun and enjoy nurturing the inner champion in each and every customer. Tennis Express was built on sharing knowledge with friends and customers. We’re Houston proud! There isn’t another store in the country like us. The depth of products we carry is unmatched with the best selection of top brands and expert service at fair prices.
What are you known for?
Tennis Express – a candy store for tennis players!
Why tennis?
It’s a lifetime sport. It’s a family sport. The real answer to that question lies in the John Isner (USA) and Nicolas Mahut (FRA) first round match at Wimbledon. Isner took the match winning the 5th set 70-68. There wasn’t a loser. That match was the greatest advertisement for the sport of tennis!
How do you stay current and ensure you carry the things your clients need as well as the things they end up wanting?
With over sixty team members who love tennis, we get plenty of input on new products, apparel and equipment to feature and carry. Our friendly customers are a huge asset because they love giving us feedback about different products. For instance, one customer asked us to carry “Yellowbox” shoes. She helped us choose the first order and brought in ten of her friends to shop once we received the sandals. Another customer asked us to carry Maui Jim Sunglasses and has not only purchased a few pairs, but recruited friends to purchase them too. We’re a big tennis family.
5 RULES OF TENNIS STYLE
1 Keep it classy and simple – dress your body type and follow the trends
that complement and emphasize your assets.
2 Protect yourself from injury – keep your tennis gear current and up-to-date.
3 It’s not a style guideline, but be kind to your skin – always use a great
sunscreen for your body and face on court.
4 Always have a pair of sunglasses handy – the perfect cherry on top of
any outfit.
5 You can never go wrong with basics.

How did you get into the business?
We love tennis. It’s a lifetime sport.

What sets you apart from other sports stores?
We know tennis! Tennis Express is a tennis specialty store with a team comprised of unique individuals that love and play the game. Our enthusiasm shows through our team members who are full of confidence and personality. Our associates love to have fun and enjoy nurturing the inner champion in each and every customer. Tennis Express was built on sharing knowledge with friends and customers. We’re Houston proud! There isn’t another store in the country like us. The depth of products we carry is unmatched with the best selection of top brands and expert service at fair prices.

What are you known for?
Tennis Express – a candy store for tennis players!

Why tennis?
It’s a lifetime sport. It’s a family sport. The real answer to that question lies in the John Isner (USA) and Nicolas Mahut (FRA) first round match at Wimbledon. Isner took the match winning the 5th set 70-68. There wasn’t a loser. That match was the greatest advertisement for the sport of tennis!

How do you stay current and ensure you carry the things your clients need as well as the things they end up wanting?
With over sixty team members who love tennis, we get plenty of input on new products, apparel and equipment to feature and carry. Our friendly customers are a huge asset because they love giving us feedback about different products. For instance, one customer asked us to carry “Yellowbox” shoes. She helped us choose the first order and brought in ten of her friends to shop once we received the sandals. Another customer asked us to carry Maui Jim Sunglasses and has not only purchased a few pairs, but recruited friends to purchase them too. We’re a big tennis family.

5 RULES OF TENNIS STYLE

1 Keep it classy and simple – dress your body type and follow the trends that complement and emphasize your assets.

2 Protect yourself from injury – keep your tennis gear current and up-to-date.

3 It’s not a style guideline, but be kind to your skin – always use a great sunscreen for your body and face on court.

4 Always have a pair of sunglasses handy – the perfect cherry on top of any outfit.

5 You can never go wrong with basics.

Awards: 1. Tennis Express is the Tennis Industry’s “Retailer of the Year”! | 2. Tennis Express is the Babolat “Retailer of the Year”!  [The racquet of choice for Rafael Nadal (ESP) and Andy Roddick (USA)]

Photography by Jaime Lagdameo

Filed Under: Retail Wrap

RETAIL WRAP | july 2010

June 28, 2010

IRENE MARKANTONIS | RICE VILLAGE DIAMONDS

years in operation | 2 years in the village with 15 years in the business
2376 Rice Boulevard, Houston TX 77005

713.526.1510 | www.ricevillagediamonds.com

How did you get into this business?

The owner came to the States and started as a cab driver – with the background of diamond cutting. It captures the American dream story! He started his business with a small office and years of experience working with diamonds, which brought him here to the Village.

IRENE MARKANTONIS | RICE VILLAGE DIAMONDS
years in operation 2 years in the village with 15 years in the business
2376 Rice Boulevard, Houston TX 77005
713.526.1510 | www.ricevillagediamonds.com

What inspires you to keep offering new and innovative designs after years?

The brides-to-be are the real trendsetters, and we help them achieve their design goals.  Paying attention to what our customers want is what keeps us innovative and helps us create new rings with different designs to please the most discerning bride-to-be. I get inspired by every lady that comes in full of excitement to share her wish list with us. I listen to her carefully while she explains what will make her happy which is in itself great inspiration and challenge! I have been designing for years but with my jeweler by my side I have made some great things happen. It’s great to have the design support to create. I am also working on bringing colorful jewelry designs to accommodate any anniversary, birthday or “just because” gifts.

What sets you apart from other jewelry stores?

I will tell you what the customers who visit us say: “You are very helpful, insightful, educational and very laid-back!” My personal motto, and what I try to instill in this store, is to make everyone comfortable without the car salesman pressure that is out there. I guide them, then educate them about diamonds as well as ring styles. If my bride-to-be is very hands on and active, I will steer her to a stronger ring that will last her a lifetime as opposed to a very delicate and super-thin engagement ring. Once my customers see that I give them honest advice, then a great relationship begins. I’ve been known to tell my couples, “OK, I will speak to you like a mom and say you ‘don’t want that, dear.’” We have a good laugh and most of the time they appreciate my candid honesty. And lastly, our price in diamonds speaks for itself! We work with absolutely every budget. The combination of our certified diamonds plus our in-house diamond buyer and his know-how is the leading key to our success.

Design trends:

Diamonds circling “THE DIAMOND” is a definite trend (we call it a halo), along with a thin band with shared prongs (a favorite on the same ring), and is our number one seller. Vintage is still going strong! We have added a twist by merging old meets new.  We create a fantastic combination to please anyone with a romantic character of old as well as architectural and clean line modern feel of new. Round cuts are number one, while cushion cut diamonds are sought after but ovals have been coming back strong, believe it or not!

5 tips for buying jewelry

1. Reliability:  Buy from someone you feel comfortable with and know. Will they stand behind their jewelry? And ask questions!

2. Shop, shop, shop and shop! I tell all of my customers to go out there and look around.

3. Stay within your budget to make the experience great and stress-free.

4. Investment! Go for great value that will stand the test of time.

5. HAVE FUN! ENJOY THE EXPERIENCE AND HAVE A GLASS OF WINE!!!

Photography by Jack Potts

Filed Under: Retail Wrap Tagged With: , , , , ,

RETAIL WRAP | june 2010

May 29, 2010
How did you get into this business?
I have always loved fashion and I knew that’s what I wanted to do. I worked in the apparel business in NYC for several years and in my mid 20’s I realized that my dream was to start my own business. Accessories were always a passion of mine and it was a natural fit. I launched Elaine Turner in 2000.
What sets you apart from other
BOUTIQUES?
Well, I feel like the fact that we are telling a branded story is what sets us apart. We are communicating ideas of escape, fantasy and travel. Every season we take our customer to a certain place. I want her to walk into our branded store and feel as though she has been swept away to somewhere luxurious, peaceful and fun. I want there to be an ease and accessibility with her experience at the Elaine Turner store.
Design trends?
We are not necessarily a trend driven collection but always interpret the trends to meet our customers’ needs. This season we are focused on dusty, soft metallics, modern neutrals and pops of color of hibiscus pink and peacock blue. We are also showcasing relaxed styles – chic soft totes, braided handles and versatile cross bodies.
Why ACCESSORIES?
I wanted to design accessories because of their ease, spontaneity and accessibility, and I perceived a void in the market for luxurious accessories at an accessible price point. Shoes and handbags are an incredible way to lift your spirits, make a statement and communicate your individuality.
How do you stay current? You carry thousands of items in very color under the sun, how do you do it?
Each season we start with what story we want to tell and go from there. We subscribe to multiple trend reports and attend leather and trend shows in NYC and around the world. My main goal is to make sure I am communicating an updated, branded message that will resonate with my customers each season. We are always looking for a fresh spin on an item or a new way to interpret a design detail, but it’s tricky because if you get into the business of trend chasing, it’s a hard race to win. Even though the fashion world might declare something as the next biggest thing, it doesn’t always mean the consumer will buy it, so I always have to make sure I have my customer in mind – no matter what I am being told. We always strive to hit on specific trends through color and silhouette but we also want to design accessories that she will want to own and wear.
5 RULES OF STYLE
1. Be yourself – Find out what your own personal style is and
what types of looks you feel best in and work on you – and
then stick with that.
2. Accessorize – shoes and bags are a great way to make an
individual statement and be unique.
3. Don’t be afraid of color.
4. Don’t be a victim of trends – Always stay true to what works
for you.
5. Don’t take yourself too seriously. There is nothing more stylish
than wearing a smile.

ELAINE TURNER | ELAINE TURNER BOUTIQUE

years in operation 10 years

2439 University Boulevard, Houston TX 77030

713.255.0052 | www.elaineturner.com

ElaineTurnerIMG_0849

How did you get into this business?

I have always loved fashion and I knew that’s what I wanted to do. I worked in the apparel business in NYC for several years and in my mid 20’s I realized that my dream was to start my own business. Accessories were always a passion of mine and it was a natural fit. I launched Elaine Turner in 2000.

What sets you apart from other BOUTIQUES?

Well, I feel like the fact that we are telling a branded story is what sets us apart. We are communicating ideas of escape, fantasy and travel. Every season we take our customer to a certain place. I want her to walk into our branded store and feel as though she has been swept away to somewhere luxurious, peaceful and fun. I want there to be an ease and accessibility with her experience at the Elaine Turner store.

Design trends?

We are not necessarily a trend driven collection but always interpret the trends to meet our customers’ needs. This season we are focused on dusty, soft metallics, modern neutrals and pops of color of hibiscus pink and peacock blue. We are also showcasing relaxed styles – chic soft totes, braided handles and versatile cross bodies.

Why ACCESSORIES?

I wanted to design accessories because of their ease, spontaneity and accessibility, and I perceived a void in the market for luxurious accessories at an accessible price point. Shoes and handbags are an incredible way to lift your spirits, make a statement and communicate your individuality.

How do you stay current? You carry thousands of items in very color under the sun, how do you do it?

Each season we start with what story we want to tell and go from there. We subscribe to multiple trend reports and attend leather and trend shows in NYC and around the world. My main goal is to make sure I am communicating an updated, branded message that will resonate with my customers each season. We are always looking for a fresh spin on an item or a new way to interpret a design detail, but it’s tricky because if you get into the business of trend chasing, it’s a hard race to win. Even though the fashion world might declare something as the next biggest thing, it doesn’t always mean the consumer will buy it, so I always have to make sure I have my customer in mind – no matter what I am being told. We always strive to hit on specific trends through color and silhouette but we also want to design accessories that she will want to own and wear.

5 RULES OF STYLE

1. Be yourself – Find out what your own personal style is and

what types of looks you feel best in and work on you – and

then stick with that.

2. Accessorize – shoes and bags are a great way to make an

individual statement and be unique.

3. Don’t be afraid of color.

4. Don’t be a victim of trends – Always stay true to what works

for you.

5. Don’t take yourself too seriously. There is nothing more stylish

than wearing a smile.

Filed Under: Retail Wrap

RETAIL WRAP | april 2010

April 27, 2010
How did you get into this business?
What sets you apart from other EVENT COMPANIES?
Swift + Company is a turnkey business that provides execution of all aspects of an event under one roof. We specialize in catering, event design and planning. We create and meld all the pieces of an event together including invitations and paper goods, tasteful menus, fine wine and libations, trained staff, unique décor, furniture, equipment, entertainment, sound and lighting, permits and transportation. Additionally, we draft and manufacture many of our own event designs to ensure they are unique to your party.
While Swift + Company offers full-service event production, our rental company is a separate entity that anyone may utilize. We love advising those who already have the cuisine portion of their event covered but are looking for beautiful and unique rental pieces.
Design trends?
Minimalist and colorful.  Simple, elegant and clean.
Why EVENTS?
I love taking a clean palette and transforming it into an extraordinary event. Taking a client’s vision and turning it into something beyond their expectations is thrilling.
How do you stay current?
I stay current by traveling, shopping, reading current publications and dining in “trend-setting” cities like Los Angeles, New York and Paris. I love trying new restaurants – not just for the food, but also for the décor and atmosphere. Design is such a major part of the “going out” experience. For me, a great restaurant has to appeal to all my senses and offer an element of surprise.
Do most clients come in with a clear vision or do you
create one?
Most clients can generally describe the event they have in mind, but we take their ideas to the next level and execute them seamlessly. Most are unaware of the details involved in putting on a large, cohesive, smoothly run event.
5 RULES OF EVENTS CATERING
1. Organization is crucial.
2. No detail is too small.
3. Every client is our most important client.
4. Have a “whatever it takes” attitude.
5. You can always catch up on your sleep later!

E Swift Cody Bess Photo

ELIZABETH SWIFT COPELAND | SWIFT + COMPANY

years in operation 23 years

Main Office + Showroom:  2137 West Alabama Street

Warehouse + Showroom:  1919 Edwards Street

713.526.7600 | www.swiftevents.com

How did you get into this business?

I followed my passion of cooking and entertaining.

What sets you apart from other EVENT COMPANIES?

Swift + Company is a turnkey business that provides execution of all aspects of an event under one roof. We specialize in catering, event design and planning. We create and meld all the pieces of an event together including invitations and paper goods, tasteful menus, fine wine and libations, trained staff, unique décor, furniture, equipment, entertainment, sound and lighting, permits and transportation. Additionally, we draft and manufacture many of our own event designs to ensure they are unique to your party.

While Swift + Company offers full-service event production, our rental company is a separate entity that anyone may utilize. We love advising those who already have the cuisine portion of their event covered but are looking for beautiful and unique rental pieces.

Design trends?

Minimalist and colorful.  Simple, elegant and clean.

Why EVENTS?

I love taking a clean palette and transforming it into an extraordinary event. Taking a client’s vision and turning it into something beyond their expectations is thrilling.

How do you stay current?

I stay current by traveling, shopping, reading current publications and dining in “trend-setting” cities like Los Angeles, New York and Paris. I love trying new restaurants – not just for the food, but also for the décor and atmosphere. Design is such a major part of the “going out” experience. For me, a great restaurant has to appeal to all my senses and offer an element of surprise.

Do most clients come in with a clear vision or do you create one?

Most clients can generally describe the event they have in mind, but we take their ideas to the next level and execute them seamlessly. Most are unaware of the details involved in putting on a large, cohesive, smoothly run event.

5 RULES OF EVENTS CATERING

1. Organization is crucial.

2. No detail is too small.

3. Every client is our most important client.

4. Have a “whatever it takes” attitude.

5. You can always catch up on your sleep later!

Photography by Cody Bess

Filed Under: Retail Wrap, Uncategorized Tagged With: , , , ,

RETAIL WRAP | march 2010

March 1, 2010
How did you get into this business?
Charming Charlie evolved out of the opportunity to marry commercial real estate and retail together and it evolved from there.
What sets you apart from other boutiques?
In a nutshell, it’s the entire Charming Charlie experience. We combine a very aesthetically pleasing environment with a very affordable price point. Product-wise, we focus on women’s accessories. Our emphasis is on fashion jewelry, but we also offer a wide selection of handbags, eye wear, scarves, etc., so a woman can find everything she needs to complete an outfit. One of the qualities our customers love most about us is our broad selection, another is how we merchandise. Thousands of pairs of earrings, necklaces, etc., can be difficult to sift through and overwhelming, but we lay out all of our merchandise in color families – so if a woman needs to match accessories to a red dress – she can quickly hone in on the section she needs. This organizational scheme is essentially the customer’s road map as she navigates the store, and is unique to Charming Charlie. The bottom line for us is to make every woman feel special and offer her lots of fun.
Design trends?
Nautical typically sets off the new year. So look for crisp navy and yellow. And if horizontal stripes, a staple of the nautical trend, are not suited for you, you can always invest in a fun striped bag or pair of earrings. We are looking at candy-inspired colors – bright fuchsia, turquoise, lime, etc. We are also looking at garden party themes – flowers, butterflies, etc. Moving into summer we are going to see more global and ethnic-inspired trends.
Why jewelry and accessories?
They are fun! Jewelry and accessories are a true, affordable feel-good for women, even in a down market. And we are the only retailer that is focused on this niche.
How do you stay current?
We carry thousands of items in every color under the sun.
How do you do it?
We can’t give out our tricks of the trade, but I will say that we have a dedicated buying staff that is devoted to knowing the trends and working with our vendors to find the most unique items. It’s also key for us to then communicate those trends back to our customers in the store through our product and through our email program and website. Staying current or ahead of the curve also means keeping up with how our customers communicate and interact with each other, so we are very active with social media.
RULES OF STYLE
1. Never be afraid to experiment. Accessories are a great way to transform
your look or try new styles with a relatively small investment.
2. Knowing how to edit your ensemble and create harmony between your
accessories and your wardrobe is key to a successful look.
3. Don’t be afraid of using color. Accessories are a great way of adding
color to your wardrobe.
4. You can never go wrong with staples such as studs, hoops, a sparkly
bracelet, a faux pearl strand, etc.
5. Balance body proportion and personal style when selecting jewelry
and accessories.

ccharlie-2718

Charlie Chanaratsopon | Charming Charlie
years in operation opened october 2004
5999 Savoy, Houston, TX 77036  | 713.579.1936  | www.charmingcharlie.com

How did you get into this business?
Charming Charlie evolved out of the opportunity to marry commercial real estate and retail together and it evolved from there.

What sets you apart from other boutiques?
In a nutshell, it’s the entire Charming Charlie experience. We combine a very aesthetically pleasing environment with a very affordable price point. Product-wise, we focus on women’s accessories. Our emphasis is on fashion jewelry, but we also offer a wide selection of handbags, eye wear, scarves, etc., so a woman can find everything she needs to complete an outfit. One of the qualities our customers love most about us is our broad selection, another is how we merchandise. Thousands of pairs of earrings, necklaces, etc., can be difficult to sift through and overwhelming, but we lay out all of our merchandise in color families – so if a woman needs to match accessories to a red dress – she can quickly hone in on the section she needs. This organizational scheme is essentially the customer’s road map as she navigates the store, and is unique to Charming Charlie. The bottom line for us is to make every woman feel special and offer her lots of fun.

Design trends?
Nautical typically sets off the new year. So look for crisp navy and yellow. And if horizontal stripes, a staple of the nautical trend, are not suited for you, you can always invest in a fun striped bag or pair of earrings. We are looking at candy-inspired colors – bright fuchsia, turquoise, lime, etc. We are also looking at garden party themes – flowers, butterflies, etc. Moving into summer we are going to see more global and ethnic-inspired trends.

Why jewelry and accessories?
They are fun! Jewelry and accessories are a true, affordable feel-good for women, even in a down market. And we are the only retailer that is focused on this niche.

How do you stay current?
We carry thousands of items in every color under the sun.

How do you do it?
We can’t give out our tricks of the trade, but I will say that we have a dedicated buying staff that is devoted to knowing the trends and working with our vendors to find the most unique items. It’s also key for us to then communicate those trends back to our customers in the store through our product and through our email program and website. Staying current or ahead of the curve also means keeping up with how our customers communicate and interact with each other, so we are very active with social media.

ccharlie-2740

5  RULES OF STYLE

1. Never be afraid to experiment. Accessories are a great way to transform

your look or try new styles with a relatively small investment.

2. Knowing how to edit your ensemble and create harmony between your

accessories and your wardrobe is key to a successful look.

3. Don’t be afraid of using color. Accessories are a great way of adding

color to your wardrobe.

4. You can never go wrong with staples such as studs, hoops, a sparkly

bracelet, a faux pearl strand, etc.

5. Balance body proportion and personal style when selecting jewelry

and accessories.

Filed Under: Retail Wrap Tagged With: , , , ,

RETAIL WRAP | february 2010

January 30, 2010

wax-6193e

JUDD MILLER | EUROPEAN WAX CENTERS
Regional Developer and Franchise Owner | years in operation 1½ years in Houston,

6 years in Florida | 5 Houston area locations (River Oaks, Galleria, West U,

Bunker Hill@I-10 & Copperfield) | 866.773.4929 | www.waxcenter.com
EXPLAIN THE PROCESS OF WAXING AND WHY IT’S BETTER THAN SAY, SHAVING OR LASER?

When done correctly, waxing removes the hair from the root, leaving soft and smooth skin. Shaving not only leaves the hair feeling thick and coarse but also interferes with the natural direction of re-growth. Shaving stimulates hair growth and only lasts for a couple days. Waxing actually slows hair growth and lasts much longer, usually up to 4 weeks, leaving the skin feeling soft and smooth. Also, it is very difficult to shave some areas of your body whereas waxing can be applied to most areas of your body. Our wax is so pliable that men and women can actually wax hard to reach areas like inside their nose or ears. Laser Hair removal can be very expensive and painful usually requiring multiple visits to treat the same area. Laser hair removal does not work on everyone and only works on certain skin types and hair color.

IS WAXING REALLY PAINFUL?

No, it is virtually painless. European Wax Center‘s proprietary wax is stripless, which allows faster application and less pain. Higher quality wax means higher quality waxing. The gentle, all natural beeswax is formulated in Paris, and European Wax Center utilizes a unique four-step process – cleanse, protect, wax and rejuvenate – to ensure a purifying, fast, virtually painless experience.

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE TO GET INTO THIS BUSINESS?

My wife, Kristina, and I are also involved with Massage Envy. We were the Regional Developers for Central and South Texas and also owned and operated 2 Massage Envy locations in the Greater Houston area. Massage Envy’s growth story is legendary and when a close associate approached me about European Wax Center in May 2008, I saw the opportunity to be involved, at a very early stage, in another incredible growth story. My wife and I went out to the European Wax Center’s corporate office in Fort Lauderdale and tried out the waxing process. We absolutely loved it. In fact, we loved everything we saw and learned about European Wax Center. Soon after, we signed up as Regional Developers for Texas. Since then, we have opened up 2 of our own locations in Houston (River Oaks and Galleria) and plan to open up 1 more. We have also partnered in the Philadelphia Region of European Wax Center and are currently working on opening up 2 locations in that market.

WHAT SETS YOU APART FROM OTHER WAX CENTERS?

We specialize in waxing. That is all we do. Even though our wax is expensive, our prices are not. Our locations are very spa-like and appeal to both men and women. Our business model is unique as well. We want to make it convenient and affordable to get waxed by opening 30 Houston area locations and offering waxing services at prices that are significantly cheaper than our competition. Customer Guests that join our loyalty programs receive additional discounts (up to 30% off of services and retail products). If a customer guest is a member of one location, they can receive discounts at all locations, nationwide. It’s perfect for busy people who can’t afford downtime, anyone who fears waxing might be too painful and those craving a bit of self-indulgence during hard times. It is also great for people who travel a lot. We now have locations that are open or coming soon in 15 states.

ANY NEW ADVANCEMENTS IN THE WAXING INDUSTRY?

Yes. European Wax Center is revolutionizing the waxing industry. With our high-quality wax, virtually pain-free process and discounted prices, we plan to open 30 Wax Centers in the Houston area and over 1,000 nationwide within the next 3 to 4 years. 5 Houston area locations are currently open and League City, Clear Lake, Royal Oaks, Pearland and Meyerland are coming soon. We want to make waxing convenient and affordable to all Houstonians.

5 FOR BEST WAXING RESULTS, GUESTS SHOULD

1. Wax regularly. Waxing every 4 weeks will allow the hair to grow in thinner and finer and will

ease out with less pain on each visit.

2. Follow the recommended at home care maintenance. Using the EWC Exfoliating body wash,

EWC Post Wax Exfoliate and the EWC Ingrown Hair Serum will ensure that guests have the best waxing results with no bumps, ingrown hairs or breakouts.

3. Start saving money today. European Wax Center makes it easy to save. You can easily jump on a package and start saving today or share your experience with friends and family. Guests receive $5

off for each guest they refer and it’s unlimited, so they can refer as many people as they like. Plus,

customers can try us out for FREE on their first visit. Women can get a FREE Bikini Line, Under Arm

or eyebrow waxing. Men can get a FREE ear, nose or eyebrow waxing.

4. Don’t shave. Shaving not only leaves the hair feeling thick and coarse but also interferes with the natural direction of re-growth. After shaving, guests will start over as if it was their first time waxing.

5. Relax. Let your Wax Specialist take care of everything.

Photography by Jill Hunter



Filed Under: Retail Wrap Tagged With: , , , , ,

RETAIL WRAP | january 2010

January 1, 2010

introNew-Living-Cody-Bess-PhotoJEFF KAPLAN
NEW LIVING, GREEN BUILDING + HOME STORE

years in operation almost a year | 6111 kirby drive, in the former wagner
hardware location. houston tx 77005 | 713.521.1921 | www.newliving.net

Current obsession
Making heathy, green building materials affordable and accessible to everyone.

Design inspiration | icon
Heather Rowell, who worked with Brian Malarkey to design New Living. Heather is just so practical and doesn’t do a thing based on her ego. She has a great eye, incredible sense of style and thinks everything through. I think she’s one of the best up-and-coming design architects in America and no one knows it yet.

How did you get into this business?
I got beat up downtown! Seriously, I tried everything I possibly could to re-merchandise and revitalize the north end of Downtown with new retail concepts and it was an uphill battle, but it’s actually turning the corner now, with Byrd’s Market opening along with other new street retail concepts. I honestly wanted to start a business that would have a large social, environmental and economic impact.

What sets you apart from other STORES?
We operate our shop like an information boutique and resource center. New Living is the only place that brings together all of the resources you need to have a healthy, safe, clean space.

What are you EXCITED FOR THIS YEAR?
More Houstonians embracing green building as we move away from the
recession.

5 Rules of New Living

1. Green building and green living should not cost more!
2. Green is not a part of our business, it is our business.
3. No buzz words or “green washing” at New Living!
4. Everyone deserves healthy, safe, clean space.
5. You can change the world, one room at a time.

Photography by Cody Bess

Filed Under: Retail Wrap Tagged With: , , , , , , ,

RETAIL WRAP | december 2009

November 26, 2009

Back-Room

WILLIAM FIERROS | CASA BLANCA FLORAL SERVICES
years in operation six | 2711 princeton, houston tx 77009 | 713.528.9090

Current obsession
It depends on the season. Sometimes I find one kind of flower that I like and I can use it every day. But maybe for the next job, I find something else and the creation process starts again.

Design inspiration | icon
To be honest I don’t have one. With my experience, I have learned to get the flowers I like and fix them together and suddenly it comes out to something that I am satisfied with.

How did you get into this business?
A few years ago I started doing flowers as a hobby but slowly I was getting orders and keeping busy. Until 6 years ago, I decided to open my own shop.

What sets you apart from other boutiques?
Well, that is a question that my costumers can answer for me. I guess it’s making arrangements that you are not going to find everywhere. I listen to what my client wants but add my personal touch and creativity.

What are you coveting this season?
Fortunately, I have a very good list of costumers but these days the flower business is getting more competitive. So I only wish to keep my costumer, happy and see my business grow every year.

5 Rules of Style
1. Freshness
2. Elegance
3. Variety of exotic and beautiful flowers
4. Simplicity
5. And of good taste

Photography by Cody Bess

Filed Under: Retail Wrap Tagged With: , , , , ,

RETAIL WRAP | november 2009

November 26, 2009

Lululemon-Cody-Bess-Photo-FINAL

MAURA SWEENEY | LULULEMON ATHLETICA

years in operation the highland village location has been open for nearly 2 years. the company was founded in 1998. | 4023 westheimer road, houston, tx 77027 | 713.621.8311www.lululemon.com/houston/highlandvillage

Current obsession
Pilates – Reformer, Proformer, Corefusion… It changes your body’s shape, makes you stronger, increases your metabolism and there are noticeable results in no time. lululemon athletica offers free classes every week, and Pilates is often one of them, so if you’ve never tried it – check out the website for all the details.

Design inspiration | icon
The designers for lululemon athletica. The fusion of fashion and function is unparalleled, and it’s incredible how far ahead of the curve they are. I can only aspire to be as cool and hip as these folks. I rely on them to keep me on the up and up.

How did you get into this business?
I always had envisioned myself working for a company where I could combine my passions for health, business and personal development. I also wanted to develop myself not just as a leader, but as a leader who inspires others and makes a difference. lululemon athletica hires athletes who want to elevate their own lives and the communities around them. I feel so fortunate to work for this company and to be surrounded by such amazing people every day, not to mention the incredible clothing I’m surrounded by daily – who doesn’t want to work in workout attire?

What sets you apart from other boutiques?
The unique experience you’ll have when you shop our store. We’re not in the business of selling. We’re in the business of educating. Our only agenda is that you leave our store learning something new whether it is why our black stretchy pants are the best in the world or where you can find the best workouts in town – and that you have fun! Complimentary fitness classes and hemming are also among services we offer that will enhance your shopping and fitness experience.

What are you coveting this season?
The Après Sport Jacket in Tweed. It’s made with our softshell fabric which is wind- and water-resistant, 4-way stretch and lined with a soft fleece. It’s the perfect blend of fashion and function.

5 Rules of Style
1. Wonder Under Tights. It’s a lululemon staple.
2. Quality over Quantity.
3. Accessorize – sunglasses, earrings and then scarves; always those 3.
4. You don’t have to sacrifice comfort for fashion.
5. Versatility. I’m a busy girl. I manage a store, work out once a day and am in grad school.

Photography by Cody Bess

Filed Under: Retail Wrap Tagged With: , , , , ,

FATOU FALL | COUTURE BLOWOUT

October 26, 2009

fatou-fall-002houston-oct-09

FATOU FALL | COUTURE BLOWOUT

years in operation 1 | 1621 westheimer, houston, tx 77006 713.520.7585 | www.couture-blowout.com

Current obsession
Colors and more bright colors.

Design inspiration | icon
Classic designs (wearable, all seasons) with a twist (an edge)|
Coco Chanel definitely

How did you get into this business?
Always loved the resale/consignment scene… I found my favorite dress, skirt… anything at a consignment store. Love the excitement of not knowing what great, unusual, limited edition will come my way. When Mix closed, I bought the leftover stock…and started a wardrobe consulting and closet organizing business. Those clients became my suppliers.

What sets you apart from other boutiques?
I am available to help you select the perfect outfit for any occasion, any time…free service in store.
We will never let you walk out with a piece that is wrong for you just to make a sale.
We are very selective when it comes to accepting consignment.
You only pay a fraction of retail price (15% to 50%).

What are you coveting this season?
Anything with bright fun colors (clothing and accessories), not a particular piece… but when I see it, I will know and I will get it.

5 Rules of Style
1. Simplicity: Avoid looking like you’ve been trying too hard to achieve a look.
2. Dress your age.
3. Dress your body type.
4. Always accessorize with taste. They are there to complement your outfit.
5. Confidence: Be confident in your ability to put things together and go for it. Fashion is all about having fun.

Photography by Cody Bess

Filed Under: Retail Wrap Tagged With: , , , , ,
Newer Posts »