The reason was that our products are unique and high-end. It only made sense to merchandise in a way that reinforces this image i.e. unique, high-end, and essentially, rare. The whole concept behind a boutique is that the products you sell are quality and not quantity and there is a uniqueness to them. ( If you were a walmart or a drug store this would not work. :) Another reason to merchandise this way is that subconciously, there is an implication that with only a few items on the shelf, this product is selling fast, and may soon be unavailable (i.e. creates urgency in the customer.)

For example, when merchandising fragrances, bath and body products, we always have marketing or press related displays that go along with the product. If you get press kits from your vendor (you should) and it has been in magazines like Oprah, In style or Lucky then I would suggest that you display that PR piece next to the product.

As an example, many people are always looking for Oprah’s favorite products. My point is that the more press or marketing you have to back up the line, the more customers trust the brand. Just make sure to display these articles in a frame next to the product. If you own a jewelery store or clothing boutique, press kits are key to catching customers attention. In our ebook we go into detail about what kind of vendors you want to work with and how to ask for support from them to help promote their line in your boutique or store.

Suni here introducing our new blog, focused on retail consulting, and our ebook “How to Open a Unique Boutique”. We hope you like our ebook and if you have any questions, feel free to come back and post a comment for us.

One question we get get alot here, after reading our ebook, is how you know when you are ready to start a boutique. In my opinion, there is never a time when you are completely ready. You have to be willing to learn as you go and always be willing to adapt to situations. The most important thing is that you did your research and you have a business (and financial) plan. You don’t have to be rich – but you need to be organized and smart about how you use your resources.

You will learn many ways to do things once you get going and you have to be willing to adapt too. Speaking of new situations, my husband and I are now looking into a new retail venture. Our new concept is based on the Italian theme, but focused on interiors and Italian designer home furnishings.

We are truly excited and can’t wait to get started! We think there is a LOT of potential for this niche.

Again, welcome to our new blog, and feel free to post comments and questions.