2.5 Weeks Later

So the shop has been open now for 2 and a half weeks, and we’re finally getting a couple of signs in place (lots more to go!) so thought I’d post a shop update. Thanks to the wonderful Sarah from Crackers Art, for all her wonderful graphic design work! There are also brand new business cards to match now Here we go:

Opening Day!

Well we made it! After weeks of preparation, way too much money spent, and really no hiccups at all, we had our first opening day! It was a big step for me, as really I am going back to full time working hours – whereas the past 4 years plus some, have been spent looking after the kids, and in combination with starting my online business. I thought I’d share some photos of the finished shop – it is a difficult shop to take photos of as the racks take up so much space! So just took a few from different angles. Hope you enjoy!

This desk is for customers to use at their leisure to help them shop! In the new showroom I aim to change the way people shop in store – by giving them the option to browse my styles online, I aim to give them an shopping independence and guidance to help them find what they are looking for. I also have a rack avaiable for customers to hang their items whilst they are browsing, so they can revisit and make sure what they choose is exactly what they want!

Here are a couple of fab shots of the kids corner – note the gorgeous wall art by Giggle Smile Designs www.gigglesmiledesigns.com

Some differeng angles of clothing on racks:

This one is looking in on the Preloved – stocks are pretty dismal and still got a few tubs to price so the rest will be hanging shortly. Plus I’ve got a few tubs worth to list so looks like I’ve got a busy week ahead! The Preloved section is just in the office area – which is quite a big space that needs some filling!!

And once again and not looking to much different than before, the office area on the left packing, and on the right processing

Well thanks for joining me for my little tour! Don’t forget if you are in Coffs Harbour, to print out the voucher on this link, bring into store and receive your discount!!

Progress!

Very exciting! Today we started moving stock into the Charlipop Kids World showroom! While a loonnnnggg way to go, and loads of hanging and pricing to be done, it is certainly shaping up! Here are some before and after shots:

Half way through building a rack, and with building just about finished ready to have carpet added:

Unit 2, looking a little vacant:

Racks built and finished, and carpet added – makes a hugggeeee difference!!

Looking in from the outside – with all the racks neatly waiting for their clothing!

Oh l0ok at that gorgeous carpet! This is a pic looking at the office area. To the right is where my computer and processing will occur, and the left will be my packing area. Doesn’t it look spiffy!!

Another view where the stock will be:

The developing Kids Toy Corner – there will be wall art coming, and more toys as well! But my kids have already tried and tested it, and both agree it is lots of fun!

Now with clothing starting to be added – lots more to still hang as you can see by the many boxes waiting!

More clothing:

And more clothing:

Office looking a little more crazy with much more to unpack!

There is so much more to do! I will definitely list some more photos tomorrow when it becomes a little tidier.

Cheers, Kat

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My Friend La Toriana

www.latoriana.com.au

I would love to introduce to you a wonderful friend I have made online – Elizabeth from La Toriana. Elizabeth lives in rural Bendigo and has been online around the same time as Charlipop Kids. Here I would like to take a few moments to introduce some of my personal favourite products of her range. She has a particular interest in showcasing some of the best Australian and New Zealand products and clothing on the market. And we are certain you will adore her ranges! So take a moment and drop in for a visit at www.latoriana.com.au – you thought Charlipops had great customer service? I learnt what I do from Elizabeth! You’ll just have to see for yourself!

Tea Princess

I have admired this brand from afar – there is something of the delicate fabrics that takes me back in time. I think the photos speak for themselves:

 ”A Pink Vintage girls cardigan” by Tea Princess

 ”A Rose and lace trim white shrug by Tea Princess

 Read more about the Tea Princess Winter range here: http://latoriana.com.au/blog/2009/03/

Tikiboo Kids

 ”Fairyland Magic” Collection designer girls Play Set -  gorgeous set by another Aussie designer, Tikiboo Kids!

Three Little Trees

Three Little Trees is a delightful brand new to La Toriana, and designed in Australia. They have a distinct flavour to them – with retro and smart prints but with a time-gone-by look about them. Here are a few of La Toriana’s range this season:

Unique to Three Little Trees – each garment also comes with a packet of seeds, to grow and help the environment. What an awesome idea!! I am personally pretty taken by this stunning range! And I especially love the cause.

La Toriana’s Story

Elizabeth has a heart-wrenching story, and I can’t tell you about her without sharing a little about how special the name and logo of her design is. You can read more about her story here: http://latoriana.com.au/blog/2008/07/ and here: http://latoriana.com.au/blog/?s=premature (scroll down the the La Toriana logo). I didn’t want to quote too much as I’d love to read for yourself, but here is a small snippet:

‘For many who dont know, La Toriana is made up of our 3 daughters names…. 2 of whom were born premature and now are our angels, and one… who is a very special premmie girl too, who is now 6 years old.  Our logo is of 2 angels and a baby…. we are all together.’

Elizabeth, I hope we can be friends for life, as both of our stores continue on a journey into the unknown. I have enjoyed chatting with you – and hope through this blog a few more people will meet the wonderful you! xx Kat

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