i know it’s only October – but it’s not too early to start thinking about holiday soirees.  the holidays can sneak up on us pretty quickly – but with a little prior planning – yours will make a big splash and be stress-free.

and YES – i think boutiques should absolutely host parties for the holidays.  whether a trunk show with local designers, an after-hours private sale for your top clients, or a weekend hoopla with specials, drinks and goodies – it’s all up to you and your style.

made by Le Cupcake - tres chic!

made by Le Cupcake - tres chic!

but if you do host a gathering and want to serve treats – i always think mini cupcakes are a wonderful idea.  they feel special and look divine on a little tiered stand.  they really can elevate the snack table from ho-hum to yum-YUM!

and your cupcakes should look as lovely as your shop.  perhaps some cute little papers from Bake it Pretty?  the papers are very couture and sassy.  and love the sprinkles- especially the crystal sugars (so pretty).

black lace cupcake papers

pretty sugar!

and then you could top a few of them off with custom created cupcake toppers from bug & boo!  looks like this gal can whip up a whole variety of cute toppers to bring polish and sass to your cupcake display.

custom toppers

finally – serve them on a tiered stand  (they’ll take up less space, leave less mess and look nicer).  you can make your own if you’re crafty – or buy a simple one from Target (i like this one because you could also use it to display special jewels, accessories and the like!).

tiered display

now – to find a really great recipe!

i had the pleasure of (briefly) attending the 3 year anniversary party of one of my favorite Portland boutiques this evening:  Mabel & Zora (and a hearty congratulations!).

the party looked to be well-attended and the ladies were doing some serious shopping.  the service was impeccable, the merchandise was gorgeous and well-stocked, and the wine & cupcakes were sweet.

here are a few of my observations as to why this party was a success (other than it’s a popular store!):

goody bags were distributed to the first 25 guests

  • this filled the store with guests right off the bat  – creating great energy
  • the bag was filled with discount coupons from other like-minded & neighborhood stores – a great way to spread the love

there was a drawing for really cool prizes every 1/2 hour – but you must be present to win

  • keeps people exactly where you want them:  shopping in your store (sadly, i had to leave to put my son to bed)

 

a hot item - denim – was 15% off.  not too big of a discount from the stores perspective (i’m sure they made up for it in volume ) but for merchandise that rarely goes on sale – this would be where i’d buy it!

the party was also on the same night of a monthly street fair - which draws a pretty large crowd.  all in all – a great way to celebrate, market the store, and hopefully generate a whopping amount of sales!

tell me about events & parties you’ve thrown – how have you made them work for you?

want to woo your customers with luxurious silks in rich, vibrant hues?  how about a flouncy party dress with a sexy racer back?  Jesica Milton, from Seattle, is a new designer who aims to blend comfort and glamour into beautiful garments.  Jesica’s first collection is an example of sophisticated relaxation – easy, breezy – but instead of your usual jerseys and cottons – she’s upping the ante with 100% silk.

 jesica milton

i’m especially loving this bright blue number.  would be a great dress for a cocktail party, holiday soiree, or as a wedding guest.  100% silk crepe, w/s for $142.50.  the line is small – but well edited.  w/s price range is $60 – 227.

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